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MCAMX2 RefGuide
MCAMX2 RefGuide
Mastercam X2
Reference Guide
August 2007
ii • MASTERCAM X2 / Reference Guide
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iv • MASTERCAM X2 / Reference Guide
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vi • MASTERCAM X2 / Reference Guide
Contents
Starting Mastercam
This document assumes that you have successfully installed
Mastercam X, have completed the necessary post-installation
procedures, and are ready to begin using Mastercam to design and
machine parts.
X To start Mastercam:
1 Double–click the Mastercam icon on your Windows®
Desktop:
1
Or select Mastercam from the Windows Program menu. By
default, Mastercam starts up in the Design application.
2 To open a machine-specific Mastercam product, such as Mill,
Router, Lathe, or Wire, select a machine definition from the
Machine Type menu.
Getting Help
Mastercam X provides you with comprehensive context-sensitive Help
that is always just one click away. This embedded, compiled HTML
Help system is located in the Mastercam \Help directory. You can
access it from any dialog box or ribbon bar, and from the Mastercam
Help menu.
To open Help to its default topic, choose Help, Contents
from the Mastercam menu, or press [Alt+H].
To open context-sensitive help for any dialog box
or ribbon bar, click the help button to open a
related help topic.
Topics in this section include:
Using Online Help
Mastercam X Documentation (page 6)
Mastercam Support and Services (page 9)
Click the Field / Button definitions tab to access definitions for all of
the dialog box fields or ribbon bar buttons.
1
Every topic provides an e-mail link you can use to contact CNC
Software Technical Documentation for feedback. Use this link to tell us
about the kind of information you need in our Help and print
documentation. We look forward to hearing from you!
Mastercam X Documentation
The \Documentation folder in your Mastercam installation includes a
suite of documentation tools, training videos, and other resources you
can use to make the most of your Mastercam experience. These
publications and movies are designed to get you up and running
quickly, and to provide ongoing education and support as you work
with basic and advanced features.
In addition to a PDF version of the Mastercam X2 Getting Started Guide
you are currently reading, here are just some of the materials you will
find your Mastercam X \Documentation folder.
Mastercam X2 Installation Guide (printed document and
PDF): Provides detailed instructions for installing HASP and
NetHASP devices, and Mastercam X. It also includes
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / Getting Help • 7
Notes:
• You must install Adobe® Reader® (version 5.0 or higher) before
you can view or print PDF documentation.
• All PDF documents are available from the Mastercam X
\Documentation directory.
• Sample part projects for use with Mastercam X tutorial PDFs
are included in subfolders, such as
\Documentation\ExampleParts, and \Documentation\Art
tutorial parts.
PDF Guidelines
1
Embedded links in the document are indicated when
the hand icon changes to a pointer as you move the
cursor over text that contains a link.
You can expand and collapse the Bookmark list. To expand a
bookmark (show subtopics), click on its plus symbol (+). To
collapse it (hide subtopics), click the minus symbol (–).
If the Reader toolbar does not appear, press the [F8] key to
display it.
To search for a word or phrase, click the binocular icon
to begin a search.
E-mail support@mastercam.com
12 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Prompt area Toolpath, Solids, and Art Managers Status bar Vertically docked tool bar and most
(Operations Manager pane) recently used (MRU) function bar
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Mastercam Workspace • 13
Graphics Window
This is the main workspace in Mastercam where you view, create, and
modify geometry, drafting entities, and toolpaths.
Figure 1-2: Mastercam graphics window
Status Bar
The Status bar appears along the bottom of the Mastercam window.
You use its functions to edit the current settings for entity colors,
attributes, levels, and groups, and to define the view and orientation of
entities in the graphics window.
Figure 1-3: Mastercam Status bar
Note: You can also access Status bar functions from various
Mastercam menus and toolbars.
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Mastercam Workspace • 15
To customize the Status bar by changing the order in which the fields
appear or by removing options, click the Status bar configure option
(!). This opens the Customize Status bar dialog box where you can
change the Status bar layout or reset it to the default setting.
1
TIP: Unless you select entities prior to making changes,
changing attributes, views, and planes applies only to the
entities and toolpaths you create; existing entities and toolpaths
retain the attributes that were effective when they were created.
You can use the Status bar right–click and Analyze menu
functions to change attributes associated with existing entities.
For more information, see “Changing Entity Attributes” on
page 377.
Operations Manager
The Operations Manager (shown below) houses the Toolpath
Manager, Solids Manager, and Art Manager. It is located to the left of
the graphics window.
Notes:
• When your mouse is over the Operations Manager, the
Operations Manager becomes active. When you move your
mouse back over the graphics window, then that window
becomes active and the Operations Manager is inactive.
• You can dock, undock, re-size, and close the Operations
Manager. See the following “Docking/undocking, re-sizing, and
closing Operations Manager” section for additional
information.
• Ιn the Operations Manager, you can customize the display of
background colors, line colors, and font styles and colors. See
“Customizing the Operations Manager” on page 18 for
additional information.
You can also undock the Operations Manager, “float” (move) it around
on your screen, place it wherever you want to, and re-size it. This is
especially useful if you are working with a dual-monitor setup, where
you can move the Operations Manager to the second monitor. On the
second monitor, you can enlarge the Operations Manager to improve
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Mastercam Workspace • 17
your working conditions, while leaving the entire graphics window free
for drawing.
To re-locate the Operations Manager, click its title bar (shown below),
1
drag it to the location you want, and drop it.
You can close the Operations Manager by clicking the Close button in
the upper right corner.
- Close button on docked Operations Manager
- Close button on undocked Operations Manager
To open the Operations Manager again, choose View, Toggle
Operations Manager.
Choose Line color to open the Windows Color dialog box where you
can select a different color for the branch lines in the tree hierarchy (as
shown below). 1
Choose Font to open the Windows Font dialog box where you can
change the font, its size, color, and style of the text in the Operations
Manager (as shown below).
You can show or hide the Operations Manager pane by choosing the
View, Toggle Operations Manager function. Hiding the Operations
Manager expands the graphics window view to fit the full width of the
Mastercam window.
Toolbars
Toolbars are collections of functions represented by icons. Arrows in
the toolbar represent a submenu of functions you can view and select
in a drop-down list.
Figure 1-5: Example: Toolbar
22 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Interactive Prompts
Some functions use interactive prompts. Prompts appear as small text
boxes in the graphics window after you select a function. They guide
you through the necessary actions required to complete the function.
For example, the following prompt appears when you choose the
Create line endpoint function from the Create, Line menu:
After you select an endpoint in the graphics window, the first prompt is
replaced with another instruction:
TIPS:
• You can drag a prompt to any position in the Mastercam
window. Subsequent prompts appear in the new position.
• You can change the size of the interactive prompt by scaling
it up or down. To do this, position the cursor in the prompt,
right–click, and choose Small, Medium, or Large.
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Mastercam Workspace • 23
Tool Tips
Tool tips display when you hover the mouse over a function icon or a 1
button in a dialog box or ribbon bar. They help you to identify the
function or option.
Figure 1-6: Example: Tool tips
Dialog Boxes
Dialog boxes appear when you must enter information to complete a
selected function. Many dialog boxes allow you to interact with the
graphics window. For example, you can enter values in the dialog box
fields by temporarily returning to the graphics window and selecting a
position, entity, or toolpath.
You can expand some dialog boxes to show additional fields. By
default, they appear in a contracted format.
24 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Ribbon Bars
Ribbon bars function like dialog boxes but look similar to toolbars.
Ribbon bars open when you activate many Mastercam functions. You
use them to create, position, and modify geometry.
Figure 1-8: Example: ribbon bar
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Mastercam Workspace • 25
TIP: When you create geometry with ribbon bars and dialog
boxes, you can edit an entity as long as it remains live. You will
learn more about entity states later in “Live, Fixed, and Phantom
1
Entities” on page 30.
When you choose a function that uses a ribbon bar, the function
ribbon bar replaces the blank Ribbon Bar placeholder. You can change
the default position, and dock or undock the ribbon bar. If you undock
the blank Ribbon Bar, it is removed from the Mastercam window until
you choose a function that uses a ribbon bar. Then the ribbon bar
displays in the last undocked ribbon bar position.
Notes:
• You can dock ribbon bars only in a horizontal position. This
differs from toolbars, which can be docked horizontally or
vertically.
• If you undock and then close a ribbon bar (by clicking the x in
the upper right corner), it is removed from the Mastercam
window. This does not cause a problem; it will display the next
time it is required by the function.
When selected, this option allows ribbon bars and most dialog boxes
to retain many of their previous settings, saving you from having to
reenter data, or reselect function buttons, or options in a drop-down
list. The settings remain in their “last used” state for the remainder of
the Mastercam session or until you change them.
For example, if you lock down width and height values in the Rectangle
ribbon bar, those values stay locked even after you close and reopen
the ribbon bar.
Note: Action buttons such as OK, Apply, Chain, or Select are not
modal and are unaffected by the configuration settings.
Learning Mode
Learning mode is similar to a tool tip, but applies only to ribbon bars.
It provides information on the ribbon bar and its functions, including
the default shortcut keys. When Learning mode is active, it appears
when you place the cursor in any ribbon bar button or field.
Figure 1-10: Example: Learning mode
1
When a position is detected, AutoCursor displays a visual cue to the
right of the cursor to identify the type of position. Endpoints and
midpoints of curves, lines, arc center points, and point entities are all
detected and highlighted by AutoCursor. In addition, AutoCursor can
snap to angle, nearest, tangent, perpendicular, horizontal, and vertical
conditions. For more information, see “Using the AutoCursor Ribbon
Bar” on page 162.
Sketcher
Sketcher is the suite of Mastercam X functions you use to create basic
geometry dynamically by moving the mouse and clicking in the
graphics window. Basic geometry includes points, lines, arcs, splines,
fillets, chamfers, and primitives. It does not include drafting,
transform, modify, surfaces, or solids.
30 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Chaining
Chaining is the process of selecting and linking pieces of geometry so
that they form the foundation of a toolpath, surface, or solid. When
you chain geometry, you select one or more sets of curves (lines, arcs,
and splines) that have adjoining endpoints. Chaining differs from
other selection methods because it associates order and direction to
the selected curves. Chaining order and direction affect the way
Mastercam generates surfaces, solids, and toolpaths.
Mastercam provides several chaining methods in the Chaining dialog
box, which opens whenever a function requires you to chain entities.
As you chain geometry, the entities appear highlighted in the same
color as selected entities.
The Chain Manager lists all the chains for the operation and provides
the utilities you need to rechain geometry. Since chaining determines
the cut order, tool rapid moves, and the direction of tool movement,
you may find that you need to modify the chaining after generating a
toolpath. For more information, see “Chaining” on page 186 and
“Toolpath Chaining Techniques” on page 734.
Right–Click Menus
Mastercam provides a number of right–click menus. For example, in
the Toolpath Manager tab, right–click to access an extensive list of
functions and submenus for working with machine groups, toolpath
groups, toolpaths, operations, setup sheets and more. In the Toolpath
parameters dialog box and tab, right–click to choose from a number of
functions related to tools, tool libraries, and toolpath parameters for
the selected toolpath operation.
32 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Here are just a few of the places where you can use right–click menus:
Shortcut Keys
Mastercam provides special keyboard assignments you use, instead of
clicking icons, to access ribbon bar and dialog box options. These are
referred to as shortcut keys. For example, you can use the following
shortcut keys when working with the Create Point Segment ribbon bar
function:
[D] - Defines the distance between the points
[N] - Sets number of points
[P] - Applies changes and remains in the function
[O] - OK (fixes live entity and exits function)
You can view shortcut keys using tool tips and by activating Learning
mode. Mastercam help topics also list all available shortcut keys for a
specific function, ribbon bar, and dialog box.
Another type of shortcut key is associated with every Mastercam
function that appears in a menu or toolbar. You use this type of
shortcut to choose a function, instead of using the mouse to select it
from the menu or toolbar. Typically, function shortcuts are associated
with function keys [F1-F12], or a combination of [Shift], [Ctrl], [Alt]
keys and other alphanumeric characters.
Toolpaths
In Mastercam, a toolpath represents the tool data and movements
used to remove material from stock. The toolpath contains a set of
rules that define the types of chains and parameters allowed, as well as
how they are applied to an operation. Each operation conforms to the
rules of a specific toolpath. An operation typically contains one or
more chains. Each toolpath you create displays as an operation in a
machine group that you can view and edit from the Toolpath Manager
tab.
To create a toolpath, you select a machine type, choose a function
from the Toolpaths menu or toolbar, and chain one or more pieces of
the part’s geometry or select points, surfaces, or solids. You then select
the tool and enter other toolpath parameters. When you accept the
parameters, Mastercam generates the toolpath operation, which
appears in the Toolpath Manager tab under the active machine group.
Operation Libraries
Operation libraries are collections of toolpath operations that have an
.OPERATIONS extension. To save an operation to a library, use the
Export function from the Toolpath Manager right–click menu. You can
use the Import function in this menu to import a saved operation, with
or without its geometry, into the current part file, provided it can be
supported by the selected machine definition.
Tool Libraries
Tool libraries store tool definitions that have a .TOOLS extension. Tool
libraries are useful for storing common tools or for storing tools for
specific jobs. You can create a separate library for each machine tool in
your shop or for sets of machines that use similar tools. You can use
one of several tool libraries that come with Mastercam, or you can
create your own tool libraries. Use the Tool Manager to view and
manage libraries and tool definitions.
Material Libraries
Material definitions are stored in libraries, just like tool definitions.
When you select a material, Mastercam copies the definition to your
part file. Material definition files have a .MATERIALS extension and
consist of base feed rates and tables of adjustments for different
operation types and tool types. When you select a material and a tool
for an operation, Mastercam can use the information in the material
definition to help calculate proper default feed rates and spindle
speeds for the selected operation and tool.
Function Interruption
Mastercam’s Interrupt mode allows you to pause a function, execute a
secondary function, and then continue the original function where it
was interrupted. For example, you can interrupt chaining, use the
Modify Break function to break a line, and then resume chaining. A
single button click activates Interrupt mode.
To add the Interrupt Mode button to a toolbar, choose Settings,
Customize. Then, in the Category drop-down of the Customize dialog
box, choose Settings. Finally, drag the Interrupt Mode button to a
toolbar, or create a new toolbar by dropping the button on
Mastercam's window.
To use the Interrupt Mode: When in a function (such as chaining) that
you want to pause, click the Interrupt Mode button. Perform the
function you need to complete. When the function is finished,
Mastercam returns you to the original, paused function.
Mastercam’s Calculator
Fields that take number values have a built-in calculator that let you
enter simple formulas directly in the field. For example, type 9/32 in a
field, and Mastercam displays the value 0.28125. With the calculator,
you can:
use a full set of arithmetic operators
use parentheses to create more complicated expressions
enter formulas using algebraic notation
specify units of measure, such as degrees or feet
call mathematical functions
The following sections describe the symbols, operators, constants, and
functions you can use with calculable fields.
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Mastercam Workspace • 37
Notes:
• Units default to the current system units (inches or millimeters),
1
but may be overridden in any field by using unit symbols. The
calculator converts the entered value to the current units.
• You can use mathematical expressions in both integer and
floating-point fields. However, if you are in an integer field,
Mastercam discards the decimal portion of the result.
• Wherever Mastercam accepts real numbers and formulas, you
can enter an angle value in degrees/minutes/seconds or
gradians/radians format.
• In FastPoint mode, the entry field accepts numbers, fractions,
decimal values, and even formulas. For example, to enter a
point position of X6, Y3, Z0.5, you could type
X(2*3)Y(5-2)Z(1/2).
• The calculator treats a space between values as an addition
operator (+). For example, with Mastercam set to inches, the
entry 5 8 3/4 evaluates to 13.75 inches. As another example, still
assuming inches, the entry 1m 5cm 4 evaluates to 45.338583
inches.
• By default, fields in which the calculator is active have a yellow
background. You can change this color on the Colors page of the
System Configuration dialog box.
Unit Symbols
Use unit symbols to specify a value’s measurement unit. For example,
use the symbol mm to specify millimeters. If a value has no unit
symbol, Mastercam uses the current default units (inches or
millimeters, set on the Start / Exit page of the System Configuration
dialog box). Table 1 lists the unit symbols you can use in Mastercam’s
calculable fields.
Notes:
• Always place the unit symbol after the numeral (for example,
45mm).
• One or more spaces between the numeral and the unit symbol
are optional. For example, both of these values are acceptable:
25in, 25 in.
• Use parentheses or additional unit symbols to clarify
ambiguous values. For example, suppose Mastercam is set to
millimeters. If you want to divide 3mm by 4cm, the entry 3/4cm
is incorrect. (It's evaluated as 3/4 of a cm.) Instead, write the
expression as 3mm/4cm or 3/(4cm).
• To convert an entire expression to a unit type, multiply by the
desired unit. For example, to convert the expression
(22/7)*2.5^2 to centimeters, type ((22/7)*2.5^2)*1cm. (Note
the parentheses around the original expression.)
Arithmetic Operators
Mastercam’s calculator supports a full set of arithmetic operators, as
listed in Table 2.
Constants
The calculator also defines a set of constants (pre-defined values) that
you can use when typing field entries. Table 3 lists these constants.
Table 3: Constants
Constant Description
#pi pi
#e e
#RadToDeg radians to degrees
#DegToRad degrees to radians
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Mastercam Workspace • 39
Mastercam Menus
In addition to using customizable toolbars and right–click menus, you
can access most Mastercam functions through a series of standard,
drop-down menus and submenus located across the top of the
Mastercam window. Primary menus include:
File Menu
Use File menu functions to open, edit, print, save, track, and compare 1
files.
Edit Menu
This menu provides access to functions you use to edit geometry, such
as the Join entities, Modify Spline, Convert NURBS, and Simplify
functions, and the Trim / Break submenu functions. Other Edit menu
functions allow you to cut, copy, paste, delete, or select all entities in
the graphics window.
Use the Undo and Redo functions to reverse or repeat one or more
sequential events that occur as you work with a file. (An event is a
single function-based operation such as create line or transform
entities.)
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / Mastercam Menus • 43
You can also use the Set Normal and Change Normal functions to set
the direction of multiple surface normals relative to the current
construction plane. 1
View Menu
The View menu helps you manage the appearance and orientation of
the Mastercam graphics window.
Analyze Menu
Use Analyze menu functions to view and edit entity properties.
Some analyze functions provide a report function that lets you save
the information to a file.
You can also use analyze functions to modify the color, line style and
width, or point style attributes of a single entity, or apply the same
attributes to all the entities you select in the graphics window.
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / Mastercam Menus • 45
Create Menu
This extensive menu includes all Sketcher (Create Geometry), Curve, 1
Surfaces, and Drafting functions.
Use these functions to create points, lines, arcs, splines, curves, fillets,
chamfers, surfaces, drafting entities, and basic geometry, including
rectangles, rectangular shapes, polygons, ellipses, spirals, and helixes.
From the Primitives submenu, you can create a cylinder, cone, block,
sphere, or torus surface. If your installation includes Mastercam
Solids, you can also create solid primitive shapes.
Additional functions allow you to create letters, define a bounding box,
and convert a solid to a 2D profile.
46 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Solids Menu
Functions in this menu are available only if your Mastercam
installation includes Mastercam Solids.
Xform Menu
Use Xform (transform) functions to move or copy selected entities by 1
mirroring, rotating, scaling, offsetting, translating, stretching, and
rolling them.
With some functions, you can join the copied entities to the originals.
When you perform a transform function, Mastercam creates a
temporary group from the original entities and a result from the
transformed entities.
48 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Toolpaths Menu
Functions in this menu allow you to create and edit the toolpaths 1
required to cut the part using the specified machine definition.
Toolpath functions appear in this menu only after you select a
machine definition from the Machine Type menu, or choose a
machine group from the Toolpath Manager. These functions vary
based on the machine type associated with the active machine group
(Mill, Lathe, Router, or Wire). Here is an example of the Mill toolpaths
menu:
Screen Menu
This menu is where you specify default settings and manage the
display of geometry in the graphics window. The Clear Colors option
lets you remove the group color (red) and result color (purple) that
occur after performing a transform function (Xform).
You can set system attributes, and activate, deactivate, or customize
the appearance of the selection grid, which is a matrix of reference
points that the cursor snaps to when you sketch a point.
Art Menu
The Art menu displays only if your Mastercam installation includes 1
Mastercam Art.
Settings Menu
Use the Settings menu functions to set up Mastercam to your
specifications.
You can define, save, or load the default values and preferences
(Configuration) you want to work with. Other functions allow you to
create customized toolbar configurations and states, drop-down
menus, function key mappings, and a customized right-mouse button
menu. The configuration and customization parameters you define
can be saved to named files that you load when you need them, even
on other Mastercam workstations provided they have the same
Mastercam version installed.
From this menu, you can also run third-party applications, VB scripts,
and create, edit, or run Mastercam macros. Ram Saver lets you
optimize your PC’s RAM management when running Mastercam. You
can use the Machine Definition Manager and the Control Definition
Manager functions to set up or modify machine and control
definitions. Finally, you can manipulate viewsheets from the Settings
menu.
Notes:
• Although you can create multiple configuration.CONFIG files,
toolbars and states (.MTB), and key map (.KMP) files, each
containing different values, you can load only one of each file
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / Mastercam Menus • 53
Help Menu
This menu provides access to a variety of information about
Mastercam.
Highlighted buttons are used only for simulation and event-driven programming functions
New Edit general machine parameters
Open Edit the control definition
Save Edit axis combinations
Save as Set password protection
File containing
Unused control definition
component
groups
Post processor
Component tree
Component
library
When you use the Machine Definition Manager to create and save
machine definitions, Mastercam assigns one of the following file
extensions, based in the selected machine type:
Toolpath Defaults
Mastercam stores the toolpath defaults in separate files. These have
a.DEFAULTS extension. You have separate .DEFAULTS files for inch
and metric operations. Each control definition points to a set of
.DEFAULTS files—one each for inch and metric values. When you
select the machine definition, Mastercam automatically loads the
.DEFAULTS file specified in its control definition.
If you wish, you can select a different .DEFAULTS file in the machine
group properties. This will be used for only new operations created in
the machine group. Use the Files tab from the Machine Group
Properties dialog box to select a different file.
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / The Role of Machine and Control Definitions • 57
To edit a .DEFAULTS file, you can use either the Files tab from the
Machine Group Properties dialog box, or the Operation Defaults page
in the Control Definition Manager. You can also use either method to
create a new .DEFAULTS file. You can create as many sets of default
1
values as you like, for machine-specific or application-specific
defaults, and save each set in a separate file.
Notes:
• The .DEFAULTS file also stores default values for many machine
group properties, such as the default tool numbering method.
• For more information on working with .DEFAULTS files, see
“Editing Toolpath Defaults” on page 751.
Parasolid® StereoLithography
Postscript
Notes:
• If you do not have Mastercam Solids installed, you can still
machine an imported solid. However, Mastercam Solids must
be installed to modify a solid or create additional solids.
• For more information on the conversion options available for
your Mastercam configuration, contact your Mastercam
Reseller.
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / Opening and Translating Files • 59
Saving Files
When you save a Mastercam file to a native .MCX format, you 1
automatically save all geometry, attributes, levels, views, planes,
machine definitions, control definitions, stock setup, machine groups,
toolpath groups, and operations data.
TIPS:
• To help you quickly identify the file you want to work with,
view the thumbnail image in the Open File dialog box
Preview pane. You can view the file’s text descriptor in the
Descriptor pane.
• Another helpful function you can use to save only selected
entities is the File, Save Some function. When you choose
this function, use general selection methods—including
masking—to select only the entities to save from the current
file, and then save the entities to a new file.
You can also type [Alt+C] to open to the \chooks directory. Then open
the \Zip2Go folder and double–click Zip2Go.dll.
Zip2Go also creates the following types of reports in a read-only .txt
1
format:
Zip2Go_[MCXPartFileName].txt: Contains a collection of
relevant files used by each machine group in the Mastercam
part file that was scanned.
Zip2Go_SystemReport.txt: Contains information on the
computer system on which the .Z2G was created. For
example:
The version of Microsoft Windows.
The amount of RAM memory on your computer.
A few details on the installed graphics card.
Registry setting data used by Mastercam (the CNC
Software, Inc. registry keys under HKCU and HKLM).
Zip2Go_FileReport.txt: Contains information on all the files
for Mastercam. Only the application system folders are
scanned. The Mill, Lathe, Router, and Wire folders (and any of
their sub-folders) in the Mastercam install folder (MCAMX)
are not scanned. Furthermore, any part files found in any
folder that is scanned will not be is included in this list. This is
to ensure that the collection of data never includes potentially
confidential information.
Zip2Go_HASP.txt: Contains information from the Mastercam
HASP on all the files for Mastercam, including the HASP Serial
# and the products licensed on the HASP. It also detects if
Mastercam Maintenance is enabled, and if so, the report
includes the maintenance expiration date.
62 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
X To select an editor:
1 Choose File, Edit/Open External.
2 In the Open dialog box, choose Editor.
1
3 In the Choose File Editor dialog box, use one of the following
methods to select the editor:
Choose an editor from the list and click OK.
Note: All of the editors provided with Mastercam display in the list,
along with the most recently used “Other” editors you have
selected.
Or, choose Other from the list and click OK. Complete the
following steps:
a Use options in the Select an editor dialog box to navigate
to the location of the editor program, such as Microsoft®
Excel® or Word®.
b Select the program .EXE file and click Open. This closes the
Select an Editor dialog box and returns you to the Open
dialog box.
4 In the Open dialog box, select the file to edit and click OK. The
editor you chose in Step 3 opens in its own window and loads
the selected file for editing.
64 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Project Manager
Use the Project Manager to select the types of files you want to save in
a common project folder. (The project folder is the location of the
project’s MCX file.) In addition to your MCX file, you can choose to
store some or all of the following types of files in your project folder:
Material libraries
Saving these file types along with the part file to a single project folder
is a great organizational tool and can be a real time-saver when you
need to move or share projects.
Figure 1-17: Project Manager dialog box
2 In the Project File Manager dialog box, select at least one file
1
type in the Files to add to project folder list.
3 Select the option: Apply these settings when adding new
machine groups to this part file.
4 Click OK.
After you activate the Project Manager, you can see the new paths in
the Files tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box.
Suppose, for example, that you have a part named Gear.mcx. This part
has a single mill toolpath that uses Mastercam’s default file paths
(Figure 1-18). When you save this part and post its toolpath (choosing
to create both an NC and NCI file), Mastercam creates the files in the
locations shown in Figure 1-19: New file paths on page 66. (The file
paths assume that c:\mcamx is your Mastercam installation directory.)
Figure 1-18: Default file paths
66 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
To reroute files to the project folder, open the Project Manager, and
click Select All in the File to add to project folder box. When you post
the toolpath, Mastercam creates the resultant files in your project
folder, as shown in Figure 1-19.
Figure 1-19: New file paths
TIPS:
• Use the Settings, Configuration function Screen properties
page to choose a graphics support type, and the Printing and
Shading properties pages to configure additional settings.
For more information, see “Setting Defaults and Preferences
(Configuration)” on page 111.
• If you choose the Print Preview function directly from the File
menu, the values for your PC’s default printer driver are
used.
File Tracking
Turn on file tracking to be notified of newer file versions. Using the File
tracking dialog box, you can specify the files that Mastercam tracks, as
well as customize how Mastercam searches for newer files. To start file
tracking, select a command from the File, Tracking submenu. The
following list shows the available commands:
Check Current File
Check All Tracked Files
Tracking Options
Use the File Tracking Options dialog box to specify how Mastercam
locates newer files, as described in the following list:
Search subfolders searches the current folder and any folders
inside the current folder.
File name must be exact match searches only for files that
have the same file name (not including the file extension). If
this option is off, Mastercam searches for files that begin with
the same file name. For example, if Part.mcx is the currently
tracked file, Mastercam looks for files with names like
Part_new.mcx and Part_revised.sld.
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / File Tracking • 71
Tracking Options
To specify tracking options, choose File, Tracking, Tracking Options
to display the File Tracking dialog box.
72 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Use this dialog box to customize how Mastercam searches for newer
versions of tracked files. Also use this dialog box to set up multiple file
tracking, as described here.
3 Select Add from the menu. The Open dialog box appears.
Check now checks for new versions of the files in the file list.
Additional folders lets you specify folders for file tracking to
search. To specify a search folder, right-click the Additional
1
Folders box, and choose Add from the pop-up menu.
File name must be exact match searches only for files that
have the same file name (not including the file extension). If
this option is off, Mastercam searches for any files that begin
with the same file name. For example, if Part.mcx is the
currently tracked file, Mastercam looks for files with names
like Part_new.mcx and Part_revised.sld.
File extension must be exact match searches only for files
with the same file extension.
Automatic tracking tells Mastercam to automatically add files
to the tracking list when files are opened.
Check current file at File-Open tells Mastercam to check for a
newer version of the current file as soon as the file is opened.
Check all files at Startup tells Mastercam to check for new
versions of files in the list when Mastercam starts.
Check all files at File-New tells Mastercam to check files
when you choose File, New.
74 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Change Recognition
The change recognition function examines two files and reports on
their differences in various ways. To start this function, select File,
Change Recognition, and then specify the file you want to compare
against. Mastercam then compares the currently loaded file (called the
original file) with the specified file (called the incoming file), and
displays the Change Recognition dialog box. From this dialog box, you
can view differences, as well as update toolpaths.
Use this dialog box to compare the geometry of the original and
incoming files. You can display geometry in various ways:
Features of the original file
Features of the incoming file
Features the two files have in common
Features unique to the original file
Features unique to the incoming file
Both files combined
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / Change Recognition • 75
Use the Override geometry colors option to select colors for the
original and incoming geometry. When this option is off, Mastercam
displays the files in the geometry’s original colors. 1
Use the Select geometry to mark as being in both Original
file and Incoming files button to specify features to merge into
the incoming file. Your original file, for example, may contain
geometry that is used only to specify special curves like containment
boundaries. Such geometry assists with the generation of toolpaths,
but does not necessarily represent physical features of the part. This
construction geometry rarely appears in the incoming file. So, to force
change recognition to preserve this geometry and not mark it as
changed, use the Select geometry to mark as being in both Original
file and Incoming files function to add the geometry to the incoming
file.
Before change recognition can identify new features in a file,
the original and incoming geometry must be in the same
position. To this end, the Re-orient incoming file feature lets
you transform your geometry in various ways, including translation,
mirroring, scaling, and rotation.
Use this dialog box to view and manipulate changes between the
original file and the incoming file. The following controls let you view
and manipulate geometry and operations:
The operation drop-down menu contains a list of operations
for the part. Select the operation to analyze or update.
The icon to the left of the drop-down menu shows the status
of the current operation. The status can be up-to-date,
affected, or dirty, as described in Table 5 on page 77.
76 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
To compare the two part versions, load the original file (the older one)
using File, Open from Mastercam's menu. Then, load the incoming file
(the newer one) by choosing File, Change Recognition. Mastercam
displays the Change Recognition dialog box (Figure 1-23).
Change recognition offers many ways to isolate and view changes in
the part. One way is to select Unique to Incoming from the Geometry
display drop-down list. Mastercam then displays geometry from the
incoming file that is not in the original file, as seen here:
INTRODUCTION TO MASTERCAM X / Change Recognition • 79
This operation's toolpath (from the original file) is red to show that it is
affected by the geometry changes.
To update the operation, click Edit geometry in the Change
Recognition dialog box. In this example, the Chain Manager
dialog box displays, from which you can rechain the toolpath.
Then you can click the Regenerate button to update the
operation.
The chain recognition function features many options that control
how you can view and modify geometry and toolpaths. For more
details about the many controls in the Change Recognition dialog box,
please refer to the Field definitions tab of the Change Recognition
dialog box help topic.
80 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
chapter 2
Customizing and
Configuring
Mastercam X
This chapter covers the following topics:
Customizing Your Workspace . . . . . . . . . . . page 82
Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 111
82 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
CAM-related
toolbars hidden
Vertically docked
Sketcher toolbar
Vertically docked
Toolpaths toolbars
26
27
28
29
In the Customize dialog box Toolbars tab, you can:
Remove or add functions in toolbars
210
Create new toolbars
Rename toolbars
Delete toolbars 2
86 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: Use the Toolbar States button to access the Toolbar States
dialog box. You can also access this dialog box directly from the
Mastercam Settings menu. For more information on working
with toolbar states, see “Creating and Saving Toolbar States” on
page 101.
29
Customizing Toolbar Functions
In the Settings, Customize dialog box Toolbars tab, all functions are
grouped by category. To view functions, select a category from the
drop-down list:
210
2
88 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
When you choose a category from the list, a group of function icons for
the selected category displays in the Commands section of the tab:
Figure 2-7: Example: Edit category functions (Customize dialog
box)
Selected
category
Selected
function
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Customizing Your Workspace • 89
TIP: When you hover the mouse over the function icon, a brief
description (tool tip) of the function displays below the function
list. You can also display tool tips in the Mastercam window by
22
moving the cursor over toolbar icons, or buttons and fields in
ribbon bars or dialog boxes.
Use “drag and drop” methods to quickly add, delete, or rearrange the
2
functions in a toolbar.
5 To create a new toolbar for the function, drag and drop the
function anywhere in the Mastercam window that is not
occupied by a toolbar. Mastercam automatically creates a
toolbar named New Toolbar and adds the function to it.
6 To add additional functions to the new toolbar, repeat
Step 2-Step 4, as necessary. To rename the new toolbar,
continue with “Renaming and Deleting Toolbars” on page 91.
X To rename a toolbar:
22
1 In the Settings, Customize dialog box Toolbars tab, from the
Toolbars list, select the toolbar to rename.
3 In the toolbar name text field, type the new name, and then
press Enter to accept it and exit the name field.
24
X To delete a toolbar:
1 In the Settings, Customize dialog box Toolbars tab, select the
toolbar to delete from the Toolbars list.
25
2 Press Delete or right–click and choose Delete Toolbar from
the menu. The toolbar is deleted from the current toolbar file
and no longer appears in the toolbar list or the Mastercam
window. If you delete a standard toolbar, Mastercam displays
26
a warning message on startup informing you that it cannot
find the toolbar.
TIPS:
27
• To add the deleted toolbar back to the toolbar file, you must
recreate it using the procedure for “Adding Functions and
Toolbars” on page 89.
• To remove the toolbar from the Mastercam window without
28
deleting it from the toolbar file, deselect the check box that
appears next to the toolbar name in the Toolbars list.
29
Customizing Drop-down Menus
In the Settings, Customize dialog box and Drop-downs /
Right-mouse button menu tab, the Menus list displays all standard
210
and custom drop-down menus that are configured for your
Mastercam installation.
2
92 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
menu. With this flexibility, a single toolbar could hold every available
Mastercam function!
By incorporating drop-down menus into your toolbar design, you can
22
present many functions in a very compact format. Creating your own
drop-down menus lets you organize functions based on your
preferences and job requirements.
After creating drop-down menus, you use “drag and drop” methods to
2
add them to one or more toolbars in the Mastercam window or to
other drop-down menus in the Menus list.
You can also build your own right-mouse button menu, a special type
of drop-down menu that you access in the graphics window using the
24
right-mouse button.
In this section, you will learn to create a drop-down menu, rename it,
and add, remove, and rearrange its functions. You will also learn to add
a drop-down menu to a toolbar, add a submenu to a drop-down menu,
25
and delete drop-down menus.
For each new drop-down menu you create, Mastercam adds a
sequential counter to the default name, for example, New drop-down
menu, New drop-down menu(1), New drop-down menu(2) and so on.
26
This ensures that a unique name is assigned to each new drop-down
menu you create.
27
28
29
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2
94 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• Adding or removing drop-down menu functions is associative.
When you add, remove, or rearrange functions in the “parent”
drop-down menu, all of its submenus immediately change.
• When you modify drop-down menus, you immediately see the
results in the current Mastercam session.
TIP: To create a new toolbar for the drop-down menu, drop the
28
menu anywhere in the Mastercam window that is not occupied
by a toolbar. Mastercam automatically creates a toolbar (New
Toolbar) and adds the drop-down menu to it. For more
information on configuring toolbars, see “Customizing Toolbar
29
Settings” on page 83.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when working with submenus:
Creating a submenu item does not move or otherwise change
the drop-down menu on which it is based; it creates only an
associative link, using the name of the submenu.
When you add, remove, or rearrange functions in the “parent”
drop-down menu, all of its submenus immediately change.
To create multiple levels of submenus, begin with the last
drop-down menu in the series and work your way to the
highest menu level. For example, to create a three-level drop-
down menu, first create all three drop-down menus. Then,
drag and drop the third level menu to the second level menu.
Next, drag the second level menu (which now includes a
submenu link to the third level menu) to the first menu.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Customizing Your Workspace • 99
29
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2
100 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Horizontal and
vertical separators
Use the Settings, Toolbar States function to access the Toolbar States
dialog box where you can view, create, save, load or delete toolbar
2
states that are stored in the current toolbar file.
102 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: You can also access this dialog box by choosing Settings,
Customize and clicking the Toolbar States button in the Toolbar
tab.
Although you use a separate function to work with them, toolbar states
are stored in binary format within a section of the current toolbar file
(.MTB). To open and load a toolbar file, use the Settings, Customize
function, and then click the Open file button , located in the lower left
corner.
Hide
2
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27
28
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104 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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27
28
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2
24
25
26
You can map any Mastercam function to a key sequence you define.
Rather than selecting a function from a menu or toolbar with the
27
mouse, use your custom keyboard shortcut to open the function.
Key map files have a .KMP file extension and reside in the \CONFIG
directory of the Mastercam installation location. You can load a new
key mapping file at any time during the Mastercam session. Key
28
mapping files are also portable. You can copy and use them on other
Mastercam workstations, provided you save them in the correct
directory (\CONFIG).
The combinations of key sequences you can use to create keyboard
29
shortcuts are listed below (where Key is the alphanumeric character or
keyboard function keys F1-F12).
[Shift]+[Ctrl]+[Key]
[F1]-[F12]
[Shift]+[Ctrl]+Alt]+[Key]
2
108 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Current Key
Reset map filename
Open Save as
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Customizing Your Workspace • 109
4 In the Current keys text field, select the shortcut and click
Remove. The shortcut is removed from its assignment to the
selected command and can now be assigned to another
command.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 111
Note: The .CONFIG file type and a fixed “save as” location
(Mastercam \CONFIG directory) are required and cannot be
changed.
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114 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Analyze
Use this page to set the default precision (the number of places after 22
the decimal point) with which the Analyze function displays values.
You can also set the default precision and measurement unit
specifically for the Analyze distance dialog box. The precision setting
for the Analyze distance dialog box depends on whether the selected
measurement unit is decimal or fractional, as follows:
2
Decimal values can be displayed with 0 to 8 decimal places−
for example, 1.345.
Fractional values can be displayed with a fractional precision 24
setting of 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, or 1/64−for example, 2 3/4”.
(Fractional values apply only to the Feet Inches Fractional
unit of measurement.)
Figure 2-19: Analyze properties page (System Configuration) 25
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27
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29
Backplot
Use this property page to set parameters that affect how a tool moves 210
and appears on the screen during a backplot operation. These
parameters include:
The parameters you choose are for display purposes only and do not
affect the part when it is machined.
Although the General Settings display parameters are available for
each Mastercam toolpath type, the following options affect only the
display of milling tools during backplot:
Simulate Axis Substitution
Simulate Mill Cutter Compensation
Show move to/from Mill Home Position
Simulate Rotary Axis
Similarly, the following Tool Appearance options also apply only to the
display of milling tools during backplot.
Plain, Fluted, and Shaded tool options
Tool color and material
Show holder, holder color, and holder material
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 117
CAD Settings
The CAD Settings properties page is where you set design and drafting 22
preferences, including defaults for:
Automating and formatting arc center lines
Center line attributes (line style, line width, point style)
Spline and surface creation type
2
Surface drawing density and back highlighting
Whether to update Cplane and Tplane when changing Gviews
Xform preview settings 24
Managing duplicate entities created by Xform functions
Arc center point display
Entity Attribute Manager settings
Figure 2-21: CAD Settings properties page
25
(System Configuration)
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29
Note: You can override many of these defaults using Status bar
options and when using functions to create, edit, and analyze
210
geometric and drafting entities.
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118 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Chaining
Use this page to define the way Mastercam chains entities, including:
Chaining mask options
Methods for sorting multiple, nested chains
Default chaining mode and direction
The values you set in this page are used as defaults in the Chaining
dialog box. This dialog box displays whenever you are required to
chain geometry.
You chain entities in preparation for a function such as toolpath or
surface creation by selecting them in a specific order. Chaining
sequences the entities in the toolpath operation and determines the
direction of tool travel during machining. When creating surfaces and
solids, chained geometry makes up the surface sections or boundaries.
You can use chaining as an efficient method for entity selection in
Analyze and Create functions.
Figure 2-22: Chaining properties page (System Configuration)
Colors
You can set default colors for many different aspects of the Mastercam 22
interface, such as the graphics background (including gradients),
geometry, construction origin, grid, groups, and various Mill, Lathe,
Solids, and Surfaces components.
Figure 2-23: Colors properties page (System Configuration) 2
24
25
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27
Notes:
• To preserve changes to default color settings for subsequent
Mastercam sessions, you must save the configuration file.
28
• To temporarily change default colors for selected entities or new
entities you create during the current Mastercam session, use
the Color function from the Status Bar. 29
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120 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Communications
Use the fields on this page to configure the default serial
communications settings between the control and the computer
running Mastercam. The settings you enter here are default values that
Mastercam loads when it starts. They can be changed when you post
the operations from the Post processing dialog box.
Figure 2-24: Communications properties page
(System Configuration)
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 121
Converters
When you open part files that are not in the current .MCX Mastercam 22
format or when you save them to an external file format, Mastercam
automatically runs a conversion program, based on the selected file
type (for example, IGES, VDA, STEP, SAT, Parasolid, DWG, or DXF.)
In the Converters properties page, you set defaults for file conversions, 2
including:
How solids are imported and exported
How STL files are exported
The level used for untrimmable surfaces
24
How units are converted
The method used to convert solids:
Convert the solid to a Mastercam solid (without 25
operation history). If you do not have Mastercam Solids
installed, you can still machine the imported solid.
However, Mastercam Solids must be installed to modify
a solid, or create additional solids.
Convert each face to a trimmed surface. With either of
26
these options, you can elect to convert edges to curve
geometry (line, arc, or spline). With the Solids option,
you can also attempt to repair broken solids during
import.
27
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122 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIP: When converting files, use the File, Open function and
choose Options to override or set additional conversion
parameters.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 123
Default Machines
Use this property page to set default machine definitions for 22
Mastercam Mill, Mastercam Lathe, Mastercam Router, and Mastercam
Wire. Once you make these selections, you can create a machine group
from the default machine by choosing the Default command in the
Machine Type submenus. 2
Figure 2-26: Default Machines properties page
(System Configuration)
24
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27
For example, suppose you want to make the GENERIC HAAS 4X MILL
machine definition the default for the mill machine type. In the
28
Default Machines property page, select the GENERIC HAAS 4X MILL
machine definition:
29
210
Now, to setup a machine group with the default mill, choose Machine
Type, Mill, Default:
2
124 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• To change default settings for other types of files, use the Files
property page.
• To select a machine definition for Mastercam to load at startup,
use the Default machine option in the Start/Exit property
page.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 125
TIPS:
24
• As you modify options in the drafting dimension properties
pages, you immediately see their effect in the preview
diagram area of each page. Use the preview to verify your
selections.
25
• To temporarily change drafting default parameters for the
current Mastercam session, choose Drafting Options from
the Create, Drafting submenu. 26
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126 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Dimension Attributes
You define the following defaults in the Dimension Attributes
properties page:
Display format and scale
Text centering
Symbols or units used to display radius, diameter, and angular
dimensions
Tolerance settings for linear and angular dimensions
Figure 2-27: Dimension Attributes properties page
(System Configuration)
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 127
Dimension Text
The default text properties you can set for drafting dimensions in this
page include:
22
Text height, width, and spacing
Text path or direction
Point dimension text display 2
Ordinate dimension: display negative sign
Line and borders
Font
Text alignment/orientation
24
Slant and rotation
Figure 2-28: Dimension Text properties page
(System Configuration) 25
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27
28
29
If you select the Factors option, dimension text height also determines
tolerance text height, dimension arrowhead height and width, and
witness line gap and extension, based on factors you enter in the
Factors of Dimension Text Height dialog box.
210
If you do not select the Factors option, you can set these parameters
directly on the Dimension Text properties page (tolerance text height)
or the Leaders/Witness properties page (witness line and arrow head
parameters).
2
128 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Dimension Settings
The Dimension Settings properties page lets you associate
dimensions, labels, leaders, and witness lines with entities as the
entities are created. You can set the method Mastercam uses to
regenerate associated drafting entities. You can limit the views in
which entities can be displayed, and define increments used for
baseline dimensions.
Figure 2-29: Dimension Settings properties page
(System Configuration)
Note Text
Drafting notes and labels are blocks of text (one or more lines) that you
insert into a drawing.
22
Notes are standalone blocks of text, whereas labels have one or more
leader lines used as pointers.
When you create note and label drafting entities, Mastercam uses the 2
following settings in the Note Text properties page to format the text.
26
27
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29
If you select the Factors option, note text height also determines note/
210
label arrowhead height and width, based on factors you can enter in
the Factors of Note Text Height dialog box. If you do not select the
Factors option, you can set the note/label arrowhead height and width
parameters directly in the Leaders/Witness properties page. 2
130 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Leaders / Witness
In Mastercam, leader lines (drafting lines with single arrowheads that
function as pointers) most often point from a dimension’s text to its
witness lines.
Witness lines are lines that project from a dimensioned object to
indicate the extent of the leader lines.
Use this page to set the default properties for:
Leader lines: Style, visibility, and arrow direction
Witness lines: Visibility, gap, and extension
Arrows: style, Height, and width
Figure 2-31: Leaders / Witness properties page
(System Configuration)
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 131
Files
Use the Files properties page to select the files you want Mastercam to 22
use as defaults, define the default data paths for saving different file
types, configure Most Recently Used (MRU) drop-down menu settings,
and define options for opening and saving files.
Figure 2-32: Files properties page (System Configuration) 2
24
25
26
27
The Data Paths column lists files formats you can save out from
Mastercam and allows you to set a default data path for saving each
type, for example, C:\Metric\MCX\.
28
The Files Usage column lists all the file types for which you can open a
default file during Mastercam processing, for example, libraries,
control and machine definitions, and post processors. Mastercam
opens the default files you set in this list, when necessary.
29
In the Data Paths and File Usage lists, first select an item in the list.
Then use the Selected item field, located below the list, to specify the
default value.
In the Files Usage section, you specify a default machine definition for
210
each Mastercam product (Mill, Lathe, Router, or Wire). When you
convert a part file created prior to Mastercam X, or you choose to
create a new Mastercam X file, the default machine definition for the
product type is assigned. If the default machine definition is
2
incompatible with the part, a special Mastercam read-only default
machine definition is used instead.
132 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
The Apply last machine definition check box in the Files properties
page allows you to change this behavior. When you select this option,
Mastercam applies the most recently used machine definition in the
current Mastercam session, for each product type. If one has not been
used, or if it is incompatible with the part, the default machine
definition you specified in the Files Usage list is used. If this default is
incompatible, the read-only default machine definition is applied.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 133
AutoSave / Backup
Use this page to activate Mastercam’s AutoSave and Incremental
backup functions. AutoSave lets you save the current geometry and
22
operations automatically at specific time intervals (for example, every
10 minutes). Use these options to define the AutoSave and backup
behaviors that can reduce data loss in the event of a hardware or
power failure. 2
Figure 2-33: AutoSave / Backup properties page
(System Configuration)
24
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27
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Incremental Backup
When you activate the MCX Backup Files option (located in the Files
page of the Configuration dialog box), Mastercam stores not only the 29
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134 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
current version of your MCX file, but also previous versions. You can
then easily return your project to a previously saved state.
Specifically, when you save an MCX file with MCX Backup Files active,
Mastercam creates a backup using the values specified in the MCX
Backup Files options. For example, suppose you have a file named
Test.MCX. Suppose also that you have Delimiter set to a hyphen, Start
set to 100, Increment set to 1, and Max Limit set to 3. Here is what
Mastercam does with your MCX saves:
The first time you save Test.MCX, Mastercam creates the
backup file Test-100.MCX. You now have two copies of the file,
Test.MCX and the first backup, Test-100.MCX.
The second time you save Test.MCX, Mastercam renames
Test-100.MCX to Test-101.MCX and creates a new Test-
100.MCX from Test.MCX. Now you have three files, which are
the original and two backups.
The third time you save, Mastercam renames Test-101.MCX to
Test-102.MCX, renames Test-100.MCX to Test-101.MCX, and
creates a new Test-100.MCX from Test.MCX. Now you have
four files: the original and three backups. Note that, in this
example, three backups is the currently set Max Limit.
The fourth time you save, Mastercam deletes Test-102.MCX
(because Mastercam has reached the Max Limit number of
backups), renames Test-101.MCX to Test-102.MCX, Test-
100.MCX to Test-101.MCX, and creates a new Test-100.MCX
from Test.MCX. Now you still have four files: the original and
the most current three backups.
Note that the most current backup version has the Start number. That
is, the higher the version number appended to the file, the older the
file.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 135
Printing
Use this page to set initial, default parameters for printing part
drawings, including line width, color printing, header name, and date.
Figure 2-35: Printing properties page (System Configuration)
When you choose File, Print to print entities in the graphics window,
you can use options in the Print dialog box to temporarily override the
settings you define here.
Notes:
• When printing, use the Print dialog box to preview, modify
default settings, and to set other options, such as orientation,
page margins, image scaling, and line widths.
• To change printer driver properties, choose Property from the
Print dialog box, and then choose Properties from the Page
Setup dialog box.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 137
Screen
Use the Screen properties page to set the graphics parameters that 22
control how Mastercam looks and operates, and to define your
personal display and selection preferences.
Figure 2-36: Screen properties page (System Configuration)
2
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25
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27
Screen Appearance Options
Select a graphics support platform (GDI or OpenGL) based on
your installed graphics card and acceleration. Hardware
acceleration is enabled You can optionally choose to disable
28
hardware acceleration or disable the front buffer.
Enable part information display, including world coordinate
axes and part scale.
Use large or small toolbar buttons.
29
Enable the most recently used (MRU) toolbar in the
Mastercam window and define how many buttons it can
display.
Enable drop-down toolbar menus to move the MRU function
210
to the top of the list so that it displays directly in the toolbar
for easy selection.
Configure Auto-highlight to select complete solids or just
faces.
2
138 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• To set default colors for Mastercam screen and entity display,
use the Colors properties page.
• To turn off the ability to pre-select entities before choosing a
function, deselect the Allow Pre-selection check box.
• To set default shading parameters for Mastercam geometry, use
the Shading properties page.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 139
Grid Settings
Use this page to configure the default settings for Mastercam's grid
function. By setting up a grid in the graphics window, you can force
22
entities to "snap" to specific positions. For example, to draw entities
whose locations and dimensions are always multiples of a half inch,
set your grid X and Y values to 0.5.
Figure 2-37: Grid Settings properties page
2
(System Configuration)
24
25
26
27
Specifically, the selection grid is a matrix of reference points that the
cursor snaps to when you sketch a point. Snapping to the selection
grid provides a finer level of precision than sketching points freehand.
28
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140 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: To modify the grid settings for the current drawing, choose
Screen, Screen Grid Settings from the Mastercam menu. The
changes you make from the menu override the initial
configuration parameters for the remainder of the current session.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 141
Shading
Shading values determine how surfaces and solids appear when 22
shaded. Use this page to set default shading parameters such as color,
ambient lighting, spot lighting, hidden edges, and other properties.
Figure 2-38: Shading properties page (System Configuration)
2
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25
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27
Notes:
• To temporarily override default shading parameters during the
current Mastercam session, choose Shade Settings from the
Screen menu or Shading toolbar. This opens the Shading
28
Settings dialog box.
• To make permanent changes to shading parameter defaults, use
the Settings, Configuration function and Shading properties
page. Then save the changes to your .CONFIG file.
29
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142 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Solids
Options in this page allow you to pre-define how Mastercam creates
and displays solids, including:
Where to add new solids operations in the Solids Manager:
ahead of toolpath operations or in the order in which they are
performed.
Enable/disable the Auto-Highlight for Solids Manager.
Specify a radial display curve angle for circular faces.
Set defaults for stitching surfaces into solids.
Figure 2-39: Solids properties page (System Configuration)
Notes:
• You can also enable or disable Auto-Highlight from the Solids
Manager right-click menu.
• To change default shading parameters for solids display during
the current Mastercam session, choose Shade Settings from
the Screen menu or Shading toolbar to open the Shading
Settings dialog box.
• To specify whether Auto-Highlight selects complete solids or just
faces, use the Configuration, Screen page.
• To set default shading parameters for Mastercam geometry,
including solids, use the Configuration, Shading page.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 143
Start / Exit
This page is where you set the default values to use during Mastercam 22
startup and to automate certain functions when you exit Mastercam.
You can select the default editor that launches when you edit NC files
after post processing and specify the add-on programs that run when
you start or exit Mastercam. 2
Figure 2-40: Start / Exit properties page
(System Configuration)
24
25
26
27
Start/Exit properties you can customize include: 28
Startup configuration file: Select one of the startup
configuration files included with Mastercam. The startup
configuration file contains all the settings in effect when you
start Mastercam. The file name may indicate the Mastercam
product (for example, MILL) and the units (for example,
29
Metric).
mapping function. You can select any key map file that is
saved to the Mastercam \CONFIG subdirectory.
Default startup product: From the drop-down list, select the
product to load at startup, such as Design, Mill, Lathe, Router,
or Wire.
Default construction plane (2D or 3D mode): Select the
default construction plane (Cplane) where geometry is
created. The list options include: Top, Front, Right, Bottom,
Back, and Left. The +XZ, -XZ, +DZ and -DZ planes are used
only in Mastercam Lathe. You can also select a 2D (XY) or 3D
(XYZ) default Cplane.
Default file editor: Indicates the default editor that
Mastercam uses when you open external application files. To
change this setting, select another editor from the drop-down
list. File editors included with your Mastercam installation
are:
Mastercam Editor (default) - A full-featured,
proprietary text editor that offers menu, toolbar, and
key mapping customization tools, intelligent full-text
editing—including support for specialized NC
functions, flexible serial communications built on
portable XML machine configuration files, and faster
performance when working with large NC files.
Cimco - A special version of Cimco Edit, licensed for
use with Mastercam.
PFE32 - Programmer's File Editor (32-bit Edition).
MCEDIT - An editor that provides utilities for editing
NC and NCI files along with optional transmission
capabilities.
Notepad - The default editor for Mastercam's Draft and
Demo products.
To use any other editing application that may be available to
you, choose Other, and use the Select an editor dialog box to
navigate to and select the executable file of the editor you
want to use. The selected editor is added to the Editor drop-
down list and becomes your startup default editor.
Default MCX part file name: Specify a default Mastercam part
filename prefix, such as MyPart. This filename appears as a
default in Mastercam Save and Save as dialog boxes. The
default file extension is .MCX (MyPart.MCX).
Current configuration’s units: Indicates or lets you select
default configuration units, as follows:
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 145
Tolerances
The options you define in the Tolerances properties page control the
precision with which Mastercam performs certain operations, for
example, how close entities must be to be considered coincident or
chained, and how smooth curves and surfaces will be. Smaller
tolerances produce more precise parts, but also generally create larger
files.
Figure 2-41: Tolerances properties page
(System Configuration)
Toolpaths
Use this page to configure how toolpaths are created, maintained, and
displayed, and to define the setup sheet program to use.
Figure 2-42: Toolpaths properties page
(System Configuration)
Notes:
• To change tool display parameters for a selected operation, click
22
Parameters in the Toolpath Manager, and choose Tool Display
in the Tool Parameters tab.
• Although tool display defaults are in effect when Mastercam
starts, if you change them, subsequent toolpaths of the same
type that you create or import (for example, contour) use the
2
modified parameters for the duration of the Mastercam session.
Toolpath Manager 24
Use this page to specify names for machine groups, toolpath groups,
and NC files. These names appear in the Toolpath Manager, using the
options you select. For machine and toolpath groups, you can enter a
user-defined name, or choose to use the MCX file name or the
25
machine name (from the machine definition). You can name NC files
after the MCX file name, the machine name, the toolpath group name,
the last operation's name, or a user-defined name. You can also have
Mastercam prompt for an NC file name only for the first operation you
26
define or for every operation you define.
Figure 2-43: Toolpath Manager properties page
(System Configuration)
27
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150 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• If you choose to use the MCX file name as the basis for names in
Toolpath Manager, save your MCX file before creating your
machine groups, toolpaths, and NC files. Otherwise, Mastercam
uses the default MCX file name from the Start / Exit page of the
System Configuration dialog box.
• You cannot turn off the Append Values options for machine
group or toolpath names, but you can turn it off for NC file
names.
22
2
24
25
26
27
Parameters you can set for machine and toolpath groups include:
Prompt: Select this option to have Mastercam ask for a group
name when you create the group.
MCX file name: Select this option to use your current MCX file
28
name as the group name.
Machine name: Select this option to use the machine name as
the group name.
User defined name: Select this option to enter a group name
29
in the provided text box.
Delimiter: Specify the character that separates the appended
number from the group name.
Increment start: Specify the number to append to the first
210
group created.
Increment value: Specify the increment between appended
numbers. That is, each appended number is the previous
number plus the increment value.
2
152 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Verify Interface
Use this property page to customize the default settings Mastercam 22
uses with the Verify function. Mastercam loads these settings at
startup. Then, when you use the Verify function, Mastercam sets the
Verify dialog box options to these defaults.
Note: Changes you make to settings in the Verify dialog box remain
2
in effect for the remainder of the session, unless you reset the
configuration options in the Verify Interface property page.
25
26
27
28
Options you can set on this page include the following: 29
Turbo: Display no tool. This is generally the fastest option.
Simulate tool: Display a solid tool without a holder.
Simulate tool and holder: Display the tool holder and a solid
tool. In Lathe, holders display only in TrueSolid mode.
210
Moves/step: Set the number of tool moves performed each
time you choose the Step button in the Verify controls dialog
box.
Moves/refresh: Set the number of tool moves performed
2
before the screen refreshes.
154 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
2
24
Note: For more information, see “Verifying Operations” on
page 784.
Verify Settings
25
Use this property page in the System Configuration dialog box to
define initial, default configuration parameters for toolpath
verification operations initiated from the Toolpath Manager. 26
Figure 2-47: Verify Settings properties page
(System Configuration)
27
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210
Parameters you can set include:
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156 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Wire Backplot
If your Mastercam installation includes Mastercam Wire, the settings 22
in this property page allow you to define how the wire moves and
appears on the screen during a backplot operation. You can define
general settings such as the step speed/increments, the screen
cleanup, and the simulated wirepath display. You can also set up the
motion colors and color loop options.
2
Figure 2-48: Wire Backplot properties page
(System Configuration)
24
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27
28
Notes:
• The parameters you choose are for display purposes only and do
not affect the part when it is machined. 29
• Selections on this property page are established as system
defaults. To change Wire backplot settings during the current
Mastercam session, backplot an operation. Then, in the
Backplot Options dialog box, choose the Options button to
open the Backplot options dialog box where you can make the
210
necessary changes.
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158 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
In this dialog box, select the configuration settings you want to merge
with the current configuration file and specify which sections to
merge.
TIP: To quickly select / deselect all options, select the All on / All
off buttons, located in the bottom leftmost section of the dialog
box.
CUSTOMIZING AND CONFIGURING MASTERCAM X / Setting Defaults and Preferences (Configuration) • 159
Note: You can also use the Current field near the bottom of the
System Configuration dialog box to switch current units by
27
selecting an alternate configuration file.
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160 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
chapter 3
Drawing and Design
Basics
This chapter introduces the concepts, functions, and
techniques that you use to create geometry. Drawing in
Mastercam can be as free and dynamic as a pencil sketch or as
mathematically precise as you need it to be. The cursor and
mouse are your drawing tools, and the Create and Xform menu
functions are your primary drawing aids. Mastercam Design
also provides many other CAD functions to make your job
easier.
With Mastercam Design, you can create wireframe, surface,
and primitive surface geometry. If your installation includes
Mastercam Solids, you also have extensive tools for creating
solid models.
The AutoCursor ribbon bar is dockable. You can leave it docked in the
toolbar area or drag it to another position. When docked, it remains
visible even when inactive. When undocked from the toolbar area and
positioned elsewhere in the Mastercam window, it automatically
closes when it is not needed (inactive). When activated by your
selections, it reappears where you last placed it.
When you move the cursor over geometry on the screen, you can
configure AutoCursor to display a visual cue when it detects a specific
position type (for example, origin, arc center, endpoint, or midpoint).
Visual Cues
Visual cues are graphic symbols that appear to the right of the cursor
when AutoCursor detects a specific position type. They identify the
type of position AutoCursor has highlighted to ensure that you select
the correct entity and position. For example, if you set AutoCursor to
detect and snap to the endpoints of existing entities, as soon as you
move the cursor close to an endpoint, it snaps to that position and the
visual cue for endpoints appears.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Using the AutoCursor Ribbon Bar • 163
3
Origin Midpoint
Horizontal /
Vertical Tangent
36
Perpendicular 37
Note: AutoCursor does not recognize endpoints on surfaces.
38
You can limit the types of positions AutoCursor detects. For more
information, see “Customizing AutoCursor Behavior” on page 166.
In complex geometry, there may be more than one position located
within the detection range of the cursor. In these cases, AutoCursor 39
uses the order shown below to detect and snap to positions.
1 Point entities
5
Quadrant points of arcs
Centers of arcs
3
6 Real curve or line intersections
(not intersections projected by Mastercam)
AutoCursor settings
AutoCursor override
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Using the AutoCursor Ribbon Bar • 165
X To enter coordinates:
1 Type the values separated by commas, for example, 2,2,5.
Note: FastPoint mode is modal; when you activate it, you cannot
move outside of the field into any part of the application,
including other AutoCursor buttons, until you press [Enter] or
[Esc].
3
AutoCursor configuration
2 In the AutoCursor Settings dialog box, select the position
36
types to detect and snap to.
Figure 3-5: AutoCursor Settings dialog box
37
38
39
310
Note: If the position type is not selected, AutoCursor does not detect
3
it.
[P] - Point
5 Click OK.
8 Draw additional lines or, to fix the line and exit the function,
click OK.
3
TIP: Remember to clear AutoCursor settings when they are no
longer needed. If you forget that you have customized
AutoCursor behavior, you can experience unexpected results
when working with other Mastercam functions. 323
Using AutoCursor Override
You can temporarily modify AutoCursor settings for a single
position selection. To do this, when AutoCursor is active, click the
3
AutoCursor Override drop-down button in the AutoCursor ribbon
bar.
Figure 3-6: AutoCursor Override button 36
37
AutoCursor override
From the list, select the position type you want AutoCursor to snap to
(applies only to the current selection). This feature is particularly
useful when the geometry is crowded or confusing and you need help
identifying a specific entity and position type.
38
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310
3
170 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: When you press [Enter] to apply the specified values, the
Relative Position ribbon bar closes. Use the current function’s
ribbon bar or dialog box to select additional positions or modify
the live entity.
You can enter relative position values using one of the following
methods.
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310
3
174 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Selecting Entities
When creating geometry, you can use several selection methods to
select positions and other entities in the graphics window, including:
Clicking with the left mouse button to choose one or more
entities, usually at the prompting of a function.
Choosing General Selection ribbon bar options.
Chaining (page 186).
If there are no solids in your file, the Solid Selection mode is not
available; you can use only Standard Selection options.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Selecting Entities • 175
3
Verify selection toggle
323
Masking Entity selection
Cancel current selection
Selection method list
If the General Selection ribbon bar is available for use when no other
3
function is active, you can select entities prior to choosing a function
by using the cursor or combinations of the cursor and keystrokes, such
as [Shift+Click]. Then choose a function to apply to the selected
entities. 36
Some functions work in conjunction with the General Selection ribbon
bar. In these functions, the General Selection ribbon bar becomes
active when you are prompted to select entities for the function.
37
General Selection Methods
Use the General Selection method drop-down list to set the method by
which you select entities in the graphics window. Selecting a method
option limits selection to that method. You can left–click a method to
38
choose it for a single selection event, or right–click a method to lock it
for multiple selections.
Once you have chosen one of the following selection
methods, you can return to the standard selection method
39
by clicking the Standard Selection button.
To finalize multiple-entity selections, you can press [Enter], or
click the End Selection button in the ribbon bar. 310
Note, however, that you can end a series of selections by double-
clicking the last entity of the selection. For example, to select three
lines using the single selection method, click the first two lines. Then
double-click the third line to end the selection process. (The
double-click method does not work with polygon and vector
3
selections, which instead use the double-click to complete the
polygon or vector.)
176 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
From the General Selection ribbon bar, choose one of the following
Selection methods to lock the method in place and disable the others.
In + / Out+
outside the window.
3
Option buttons 323
Criteria type
check boxes
and buttons
3
Criteria options
to Select Entity,
36
Select All, or
Clear All
37
Criteria list
38
Additional
39
masking
parameters
310
In the Select All or Select Only (Masking) dialog box, you can open an
existing mask file to apply or choose the mask criteria, including any
3
combination of entity types, colors, levels, line styles, line widths,
point styles, arc diameter, or line lengths that match a specified value
and filter.
180 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Quick Masks
Mastercam's Quick Masks are time-saving functions that
allow you to select entities by type with a single mouse click,
without having to open the All or Only dialog boxes.
Figure 3-12: Quick Masks Toolbars
X To select and delete all line entities in the current part file
3
1 From the General Selection ribbon bar, choose All.
2 To view and edit the Entities mask criteria, choose the Entities
check box. 323
3 In the Entities criteria list, double–click the Lines check box
(under Wireframe) to immediately apply the mask and exit the
dialog box.
4 All line entities are selected in the graphics window. To delete
3
all lines from the part, press the keyboard Delete key.
2 In the Select All dialog box, choose the Entities check box.
5 Select the check box next to the color of the entities to include.
2 In the Select Only dialog box, choose the Entities button and
check box.
182 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIP: Use the “Maintain Only Mask” check box in the Select
Only dialog box to apply a mask until you close the Mastercam
session or choose to deselect the Maintain check box.
3
1
Click here to select the set of curves Click here to select all of the curves
marked 1, 2, and 3 (infinite nesting in marked within and including the
area chaining is off). Selected curves outermost boundary (infinite nesting in
are shown in bold. area chaining is on). Selected curves
are shown in bold.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Selecting Entities • 185
Unselecting Entities
3
Use one of the following methods to cancel or unselect entities.
Click a single entity again to unselect it. Or, if Mastercam is at
the root level (that is, not inside a function), press [Esc].
36
Choose another selection method. All entities selected in a
single action, such as Window selection, are unselected.
Choose the Unselect all option in the General Selection
ribbon bar to clear all selections.
37
38
39
310
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186 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Chaining
Chaining is the process of selecting and linking pieces of geometry so
that they form the foundation of a toolpath, surface, or solid. This
fundamental Mastercam concept has important applications in both
design and machining functions.
When you chain geometry, you select one or more sets of curves (lines,
arcs, and splines) that have adjoining endpoints. Chaining differs from
other selection methods because it associates order and direction to
the selected curves. Chaining order and direction affect the way
Mastercam generates surfaces, solids, and toolpaths.
When chaining is required for a selected function, Mastercam displays
the Chaining dialog box. If the current part file contains wireframe and
solid entities, you can use the buttons at the top of the dialog box to
choose the type of entities you want to chain. Otherwise, the entity
type is pre-selected.
Figure 3-14: Chaining dialog box, selection type buttons
Wireframe Solid 3
323
3
36
37
38
39
310
3
Chaining Wireframe Geometry
Chaining wireframe entities is similar to using the standard mode in
General Selection. The entities you select when chaining appear in the
selection color. Use options in the Chaining dialog box to choose:
188 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Chaining Solids
In Solids mode, the Chaining dialog box provides options to chain 3
solid entities. The chain solids buttons act as toggles, allowing you to
include or exclude certain types of solid elements from chain
selection, including:
Setting Attributes
All Mastercam entities have basic attributes (physical characteristics).
Based on the entity type, attributes can include:
Color
Point style
Line style and width
Level
Note: You set default attributes in the CAD Settings page of the
System Configuration dialog box and save these settings to a
Mastercam configuration file (from the Mastercam menu, choose
Settings, Configuration, CAD Settings). When you run
Mastercam, attribute settings are loaded, along with other
configuration parameters, and appear as default values in the
Status bar fields.
TIP: You can also access the Entity Attributes Manager from the
Attributes dialog box to specify attributes by entity type.
3
323
3
36
37
38
To open the Color palette dialog box and choose a color,
double–click the color sample.
Note: You can also use the EA Mgr to apply attributes to files you
39
convert from other programs. Select the option to Include entities
created during File-Open.
4 When all entity attributes are set, click OK to accept them and
310
return to the Attributes dialog box.
Note: These methods do not change the values that appear in the
Status bar attributes fields; they apply only to the entities you select
in the graphics window.
Note: To continue to use these attributes for new entities, leave the
EA Mgr check box selected in the Attributes dialog box. To use
different attributes, deselect the check box.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Attributes • 197
To select a color:
Type its ID number in the Current color field.
Click the color in the color palette.
Choose the Select button and click an entity in the graphics
window with the color you want to use.
Choose the Customize tab and use the fields to create a
custom color.
Setting Z Depth
Use the Z field in the Status bar to set the Z-depth value for the
geometry and toolpaths you create. Set the Z depth using one of the
following methods:
Type a value in the field.
Click the drop-down arrow and choose one from the most
recently used list.
Click the Z label and select a position in the graphics window
to use its Z depth value.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Attributes • 199
Convert to NURBS
Surfaces and solids
Close Arc
39
Modify Spline Simplify
Notes:
• In 3D mode, if you choose to bisect two lines that are not in the
same plane or are not parallel to the current Cplane, a message
informs you that a 3D solution does not exist and asks you to
specify the Z depth to use for the 2D solution.
• When editing entities using the Trim or Break functions, all
solutions are calculated based on the current Cplane setting. If
the entities cannot intersect in the current Cplane through a 2D
projection, they cannot be modified using these functions.
Zooming
Mastercam also offers a number of zoom functions, including:
3
Using Viewsheets
Use viewsheets to create different part views, each on its own
viewsheet tab. With a viewsheet you can define a specific view
orientation and scale, store modified level settings, and use a
36
bookmark to define a restorable viewsheet state.
By default, viewsheets are off. To enable viewsheets, choose Settings,
Viewsheets, Viewsheets Enabled from the menu bar. The main
viewsheet tab then displays at the bottom of Mastercam's window, as
37
shown below.
38
39
When you have viewsheets enabled, manipulate them as follows:
310
X To define a new viewsheet:
Select Settings, Viewsheets, Create New Viewsheet from
the menu bar, or right-click a viewsheet tab, and select New
Viewsheet from the pop-up menu. 3
X To copy an existing viewsheet:
Select Settings, Viewsheets, Copy Current Viewsheet from
the menu bar, or right-click a viewsheet tab, and select Copy
Viewsheet from the pop-up menu.
204 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
X To rename a viewsheet:
Select Settings, Viewsheets, Rename Current Viewsheet
from the menu bar, or right-click a viewsheet tab, and select
Rename Viewsheet from the pop-up menu.
X To delete a viewsheet:
Select Settings, Viewsheets, Delete Current Viewsheet from
the menu bar, or right-click a viewsheet tab, and select Delete
Viewsheet from the pop-up menu.
Setting Viewports
A viewport is an area within the graphics window that displays a
particular graphics view of the geometry you are working with. A
viewport configuration is an arrangement of one or more (up to four)
viewports. By default, Mastercam displays geometry from the top view
in a single viewport that occupies the entire graphics window.
To divide the graphics window into multiple viewports, or panes, each
capable of displaying a different graphics view, choose an option from
the View, Viewports menu.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Changing the Graphics Window Display • 205
TIP: To change the size of the viewport panes, grab and drag
39
the vertical or horizontal inside edge.
310
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206 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIP: Mastercam saves the most recently used plane, view, and
WCS selections for each machine group, and restores them
whenever you activate the machine group. For example, if one
machine group has toolpaths on the front of the part, and
another machine group has toolpaths on the side of the part,
when you activate either machine group, Mastercam
automatically activates the views and planes you were using the
last time the group was active.
+Z
3
+Y
-X +X 323
-Y -Z
Standard Views
Every Mastercam part includes standard views that correspond to the
six faces of a cube (Top, Front, Back, Right, Left, Bottom) plus an
Isometric view. Standard views are available in all Mastercam files.
Their names and coordinates cannot be modified.
Figure 3-26: Standard Views
The Status bar Gview, Planes, and WCS menus provide options you
use to select standard views, create custom views, and set the Gview,
Tplane / Cplane, and WCS.
Use options in the Gview menu to orient the graphics view
and control the perspective from which you view the part. You
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 209
If you configure the Status bar to include separate Cplane and Tplane
panes, these menus also share many common fields.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 211
Cplane Tplane 3
323
3
36
37
To help you become familiar with using view, planes, and WCS Status
bar menu options, descriptions and tips for each option are provided
38
below, organized by the their general category.
Standard views: Select Top, Front, Back, Right, Left, Bottom,
or Isometric to quickly set a standard plane. When selecting a
standard view from the Gview or Planes menus, the plane
39
you set is relative to the current WCS. This is why (WCS) is
part of the standard view name in these menus. Standard
planes line up with a cube which has been shifted so that it is
parallel to the WCS axes.
310
TIP: To reset the Gview or Cplane / Tplane to the default Top
system view, regardless of the WCS setting, select Named, and
then choose Top from the View Selection dialog box. 3
212 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Choose the Status bar configure option [!] and use the
right-click menu to insert separate Cplane and Tplane planes
into the Status bar. Then use the Status bar Cplane and Tplane
menu functions to set the planes independently.
3
Work Coordinate Systems
You can shift and move the Mastercam coordinate axes to create a
323
work coordinate system (WCS). Defining a WCS lets you easily move
the coordinate system to your part when creating geometry, solids, or
toolpaths. Using this technique eliminates the need to perform
complex calculations, or otherwise transform the part to the
coordinate system. Instead of moving the part, you are moving its
3
orientation.
Gviews, Cplanes, and Tplanes are all measured relative to the WCS and
its origin. However, you change the WCS in exactly the same way that
you change other views: create a view which captures the orientation
36
and origin that you want to work with, then set the WCS equal to it.
The picture of the coordinate axes (the gnomon) shows the orientation
of the current Gview.
The lower line displays the name of the views aligned with the Gview,
WCS, Cplane, and Tplane.
The following picture shows the same display when the Tplane and
Cplane are oriented differently. In this case, both are set to align with
different custom views: 3
323
Displaying Coordinate Axes
At any time, you can press F9 to display the coordinate axes and origin.
The default color for these axes is brown. The axes for the Cplane and
3
Tplane views also display, if they are different (the Cplanes axes in
blue, and the Tplane axes green).
To see an enhanced axis display that includes additional gnomons,
press Alt+F9:
36
In the upper left corner of the graphics
window, a gnomon shows the Cplane
orientation.
37
In the upper right corner, another
gnomon shows the Tplane orientation.
38
A third gnomon displays at the WCS
origin to indicate its orientation. It
appears in the color assigned to the WCS 39
view in the View Manager.
Use the View Selection dialog box to select the standard, pre-
defined Top view. You can choose this view without affecting
the view used to align the current WCS. For example, if the
WCS is aligned to a custom view but you want to draw
geometry in the default XY plane, from the Status bar, choose
Planes, Named. Then select Top from the View Selection
dialog box.
To select the Top plane relative to the WCS, from the Status
bar, choose Planes, Top (WCS). When you look at the status
area, instead of Top, the same view name as the WCS displays,
instead of Top, indicating that the top plane is now parallel to
the WCS instead of to the system XY plane.
Managing Views
The View Manager dialog box is a central point where you can select,
edit, create and manage views.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 219
3
323
3
36
Some of the tasks that you can accomplish here include:
Applying selected views to the Cplane, Tplane, and the WCS
37
Editing the origin of a view
Assigning a work offset to a view (when you select the view for
a toolpath, the work offset code is automatically generated)
Creating a new view relative to existing views or by copying
38
existing views
The list contains all of the views that have been defined in the current
part file. Click a view to select it, then use the buttons in the Set
current view and origin section to apply it to the WCS, Cplane, or
39
Tplane.
Next, create another view anchored on the same point but with the X
and Y axes flipped. In the View Manager, you will see that the
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 221
3
323
for the Tplane or Cplane. When you do this, you can apply the new
origin to the view which is currently mapped to those functions, or
create a new view.
Note: When you change the origin for an existing view, Mastercam
automatically updates the tool origin for any toolpaths created in
that view. These toolpaths will need to be regenerated before they
can be posted.
TIPS:
• Deselect the Enable origin check box if the selected view sets
3
only the orientation of a plane, and you do not want to change
the origin.
• Select the Associative check box to maintain a link to
geometry in the graphics window. For example, you might
create a view aligned with a face of your part. If you select
323
the Associative option, Mastercam updates the view's
orientation and origin when the underlying geometry moves.
Deselect this option if you are creating the view from
temporary guides or construction lines that you plan to
3
delete.
4 Click OK to save the changes and exit the function. The origins
of any functions that are currently aligned with the view (such
as the Tplane or Cplane) are immediately updated to reflect
36
the new origin.
3 Use the following steps in the Select View dialog box to select
the positive directions for the axes:
a Click the arrows to preview different sets of axis
combinations.
b Click OK to accept the displayed axis combination.
4 Use options in the New View dialog box to define the new
view.
Mastercam displays default origin coordinates based on
the selected geometry, but you can use the Select button
to choose a different location.
Select the Set new origin check box to align the Cplane,
Tplane, and/or the WCS origins relative to the view origin
when applying the view. If unselected, when you work in
the view, its planar orientation is applied to the WCS,
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 225
started from the Planes menu, the new view is applied to the
Tplane /Cplane.
Note: You can also select Rotate Graphics View from the Gview
Status bar menu. To name and save the new view you create using
this method, you must choose Save from the Gview Status bar
menu and complete the fields in the New View dialog box, as
described.
3 Drag the mouse to rotate the Gview about the selected point.
4 To fix the view and exit the function, click the mouse again.
The status display in the graphics window should read Gview:
Not saved:
A custom view has been created which aligns with the rectangle; it has
been named SLANT 20 DEG and saved to the view list. The examples
which follow show the effect of changing the Tplane or the WCS to
align the toolpath with the part geometry.
3
323
3
36
When you backplot the toolpath, you can see that the tool axis is
normal to the part geometry.
37
38
39
When you post the part with a 5-axis post processor, a B20 code is
310
output, rotating the tool axis or table 20 degrees before the part is cut.
The Tplane selection is what triggered the rotary motion.
3
230 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Example 1 NC Code:
...
N140 ( 1/4 FLAT ENDMILL TOOL - 1 DIA. OFF. - 0
LEN. - 0 DIA. - .25 )
N150 T1 M6
N160 G0 G54 G90 X1. Y-1.125 C0 B20. S2139 M3
...
If the part will be mounted on a rotary fixture, this would be the proper
approach.
The T/Cplane displays SLANT 20 DEG because the Top view that you
selected for the T/C plane is relative to the WCS. Since this matches a
named view from the catalog (SLANT 20 DEG), Mastercam displays
the view by name.
Next, you will create the same contour toolpath. In the Toolpath
Parameters tab, click the Planes button to verify the plane settings.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 231
3
323
3
36
The Tplane matches Example 1, but the WCS is different. Select the
Display relative to WCS option to see the relationship between the
Tplane and the WCS. 37
38
39
310
3
232 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
When you backplot the toolpath, the toolpath and tool orientation
look exactly the same, but when you post it, there is no rotary motion.
Example 2 NC Code:
...
N140 ( 1/4 FLAT ENDMILL TOOL - 1 DIA. OFF. - 0
LEN. - 0 DIA. - .25 )
N150 T1 M6
N160 G0 G54 G90 X1. Y-1.125 C0. B0. S2139 M3
...
If the part will be mounted flat on the table instead of a rotary fixture,
this would be the proper approach.
To address this situation, create a new view aligned with the part
geometry. Choose WCS from the Status bar, select WCS by Geometry,
and select either two lines from the contour or one of the arcs. When
the New View dialog box displays, assign a name, locate the origin at a
suitable point, and, optionally, assign a work offset for the view. Click
OK to save the new view.
Select the new view for the WCS, and then align the Tplane and Cplane
to it. Choose Planes from the Status bar, then Top (WCS). Create a 2D
toolpath as usual. When you post the part, 2D tool motion commands
are dimensioned from the part origin, as if the part is lying flat.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 235
323
3
In this situation, assign a different work offset to each fixture. Then,
when you create the toolpaths for each part, include the offset number
in each toolpath. By basing each toolpath on an offset number instead
of a coordinate position, you can run the job without worrying about
36
how the fixtures are positioned on the table. Before running the job,
the operator needs only to touch off the parts properly to set each
offset position in the control.
To accomplish this in Mastercam, choose View Manager from the
37
WCS Status bar menu and use the View Manager dialog box to create
a new view for each fixture. To create each view, click on the Top view,
and choose Copy. Then type a name for the new view and enter the
offset for the fixture. To define an origin for the view, in the Origin
section, choose Select and pick a point on the fixture as shown in the
38
above picture.
Before creating operations for each part, choose Named from the
Planes Status bar menu, and select the view you created for the fixture.
When you post the operations, Mastercam automatically outputs the
39
correct offset codes and creates tool positions relative to the origin
specified for each fixture.
310
3
236 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
+Z
+X
+Y
-Z +Z
-X +X
-X
-Y -Z
Use the Tool Angle dialog box that displays to enter the angle of the
36
tool. You can enter the angle directly in the field, or select a line
parallel to the Feed Direction or Plunge Direction by clicking the
appropriate button. Then enter the rotation angle of the tool about its
axis. You can select 0 or 180, or choose Other and type the desired 37
angle in the field.
TIP: You can also store a tool angle in the tool definition.
Typically, this is done to support lathes without a B axis in order
to create tools that are at an angle to the primary axes. For
38
lathes with true B-axis capability, enter a tool angle of 0 in the
tool definition so that the tool is parallel to the axis for
compatibility with a tool changer. Then use the Tool Angle
button and dialog box to set the desired tool angle for each
39
operation.
IMPORTANT: The angle entered in the Tool Angle dialog box 310
is measured relative to any tool angle stored in the tool
definition; it does not simply replace or overwrite it.
3
238 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Lathe Cplanes
Mastercam provides special lathe construction planes that allow you
work in familiar lathe coordinates. For conventional 2D turning
applications, use the Status bar Planes menu to select the coordinate
system. Select Lathe Radius or Lathe Diameter coordinates, and then
specify the desired X and Z directions.
This sets the Cplane and Tplane; there is no need to change the WCS.
For conventional 2D turning applications, you can leave the WCS as
the system Top view.
This maps the lathe Z axis so that it is vertical. You can now choose a
diameter or radius coordinate system from the Planes menu. When
you work with the part in the graphics window, it is oriented vertically,
as it will be on the machine.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Setting Planes / Views / WCS • 239
However, if you are a post writer and familiar with creating posts
for earlier versions of Mastercam Lathe, your post processors may
3
now need to perform this initial coordinate transformation rather
than just reading it from the NCI file.
37
38
39
310
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240 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIP: You can also use functions in the Xform and Analyze
menus to modify entities. For more information, see “Modifying
Geometry” on page 331.
Undo / Redo
You can undo and redo one or more sequential events
that occur while working with the current file and
design functions.
An event is defined as a function-based operation. There is no
difference between creating a single line or using an Xform function
that creates 100 lines. Each is a single event.
By default, Mastercam can save up to 2 billion undo / redo events,
restricted only by the amount of random access memory (RAM)
available on your PC. To enhance your PC performance, you can
configure Mastercam to store only a specific number of events and
allocate a maximum amount of RAM to the undo / redo functions. For
more information, see “Setting Defaults and Preferences
(Configuration)” on page 111.
Notes:
• Each time you open a part file or create a new file, the list of
undo / redo events is cleared from memory. However, saving or
merging the current file does not clear this list.
• Due to the complex and associative nature of creating and
modifying toolpaths, you cannot undo or redo toolpath-related
functions.
• You can undo / redo the creation of a solid and Xform events
involving a solid. However, other Solids functions, including
changes you make to solid operations in the Solids Manager, are
not stored as undo / redo events.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Editing Your Work • 241
The events you can undo and redo are limited to Mastercam CAD
functions, including those you use to create or edit geometry, drafting
entities, file annotations, and entity attributes. If your Mastercam
installation includes Mastercam Solids, you can also undo / redo
3
solids creation and transform operations.
323
3
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37
38
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242 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Delete / Undelete
The delete and undelete functions in the Edit, Delete submenu allow
you to permanently remove or restore one or more selected entities
from the graphics window and from the part file. You can also use the
Delete Duplicates (simple) and Delete Duplicates - Advanced
functions to find and automatically delete duplicate entities in the
current file. This section describes each delete and undelete function
and how and when to use it.
3
36
Delete Duplicates (advanced)
Use this function to find and delete duplicate entities in the
current file based on their XYZ position, selected entity type,
37
and the entity attributes you specify, including:
Color
Level
Line Style
Line Width
Point Style
38
This function also provides an online summary of the entities that
were deleted.
Delete Entity
39
You can use different methods to delete entities, based on
whether you select entities before or after choosing the
Delete function.
310
First use the General Selection ribbon bar options to
select entities. Then press the Delete key on your PC keyboard
or choose the Delete entity function from the Edit menu.
First choose the Delete entity function. Then select the
3
entities to delete and press the [Enter] key or choose the End
selection button in the General Selection ribbon bar.
244 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• To recover the entities you delete in error, use the Undelete or
Undo functions.
• To temporarily remove selected entities from the graphics
window, use the Hide or Blank functions. For more
information, see “Hiding Entities” on page 264 and “Blanking
Entities” on page 264.
Undeleting Entities
Use the Undelete functions to restore one or more deleted entities to
the current file. You can undelete only the entities you deleted while
working with the current file. For example, if you delete entities from
File 1, you can “undelete” them only until you open File 2.
Undelete functions include:
Undelete entity: Restores the last entity you deleted.
You can continue to select this option to
incrementally undelete entities.
Undelete # of entities: Restores the number of
specified entities by reversing the sequence in
which they were deleted. For example, if you deleted
20 entities and wanted to only delete the first 15,
choose this function and type 5 in the field. The last 5 entities
that were deleted are “undeleted” and restored to the part file.
Undelete entities by mask: Opens the Selection
mask dialog box where you can specify the criteria
you want to use to select the entities to undelete.
TIP: To recover the entities you delete in error, you can also use
the Undo function.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Power User Tips • 245
Drafting 36
Use functions in the Create, Drafting menu and its submenus to work
with drafting entities. In this section, you will learn to create and
modify different types of drafting entities, and apply them effectively.
For more information, see: 37
Drafting Dimensions on page 245
Smart Drafting Dimensions on page 246
Baseline, Chained, and Ordinate Dimensions on page 247
Working with Ordinate Dimensions on page 249
38
Non-Dimensioned Drafting Entities on page 252
Associating Drafting Entities with Geometry on page 255
Defining Drafting Options on page 258 39
Drafting Dimensions
Drafting dimensions measure the size of geometric entities or the
distances or angles between entities. All dimensions contain text, up to
310
two leader lines, and/or up to two witness lines.
3
246 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIP: You can assign drafting entities to their own level, which
makes it easy to filter the display of drafting entities, as
necessary.
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Baseline Dimensions
Baseline dimensions reference an existing linear dimension which
becomes the base, or zero point, for all baseline dimensions in the
series. Baseline dimensions inherit their orientation from the initial
dimension but are not associated. Create baseline dimensions when:
Associativity is not important
“Stacked” display and orientation suits the rest of the drawing
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Power User Tips • 249
3
323
3
Ordinate, Add to an Existing Ordinate Dimension
Use this function to add secondary, or child, ordinate
36
dimensions to an existing ordinate base dimension that you
select and which Mastercam designates as 0.0000.
39
310
3
Once you set a base point and other dimension parameters,
Mastercam automatically creates a base (parent) dimension and all
possible child dimensions relative to this point based on the selected
parameters and entities.
252 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Create Note
This function allows you to create drafting notes and labels,
and as an alternative way to create freestanding single,
3
segmented, or multiple leader lines. Drafting notes and
labels are blocks of text (one or more lines) which you can
insert into a drawing. Notes are standalone blocks of text, whereas
labels have one or more leader lines used as pointers. 323
Figure 3-41: Drafting Note dialog box
3
36
37
Create X-Hatch 39
To fill a selected closed curve boundary with a specific hatch
pattern, use the Hatch function and choose from standard
and user-defined patterns.
310
3
254 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
You can also customize the spacing, and rotation angle of the selected
pattern.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Power User Tips • 255
horizontal vertical
310
parallel perpendicular
baseline
Notes:
• Chained dimensions cannot be associated with geometric
entities.
• For more information on setting drafting configuration
parameters, see “Defining Drafting Options” on page 258.
323
3
36
37
38
39
310
3
260 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Hidden level
323
3
36
37
38
Set main level by typing the number Set main level by selecting an entity
in the graphics window 39
In the Level Manager dialog box, the main level is highlighted
in yellow. Take any one of the following actions to set the main
level:
Click once on the level number in the Number column. 310
Choose a level to select it. Then right–click and choose
Make Main.
Type a number in the Main Level, Number text box.
Choose the Select button. The Levels Manager dialog box
3
minimizes so that you can return to the graphics window
and select an entity on the level that you want to use. When
you select the entity, the Level Manager dialog box expands
and shows the main level set to the level of the selected
entity.
262 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 for all levels you want to assign to the
same named set.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Power User Tips • 263
Notes:
• To sort all levels by set name, click the Level Set column
3
heading.
• To show or hide a set of levels based on their Level Set name,
right-click in the Level Set column cell of one member of the set
and choose All Level Set On or All Level Set Off. 323
Reusing Level Names (Save/Get)
Use the Get Named Levels and Saved Named Levels functions
3
(available in the right-click menu of the Levels Manager dialog box) to
save all levels and level set names and reuse them in other Mastercam
files. This allows you to standardize a naming scheme and use it in
other Mastercam files without having to manually recreate it in each
file. This standardization makes it easier to share files between work
36
stations, other departments in your organization, and with other
companies.
Notes:
• The CSV file format is compatible with many applications,
39
including Microsoft® Excel®.
• You can also manually create a CSV file in Excel. An Excel CSV
file usually contains three columns of information: level
number, level name, and level set name. Level number and level
310
name columns are required, while the set name column is
optional.
3
X To get saved levels from a file:
1 Right–click in any column in the Level Manager and choose
Get Named Levels.
2 Use the fields in the Open file dialog box to navigate to the file
location and select the .CSV file to use.
264 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
3 Click Open to copy the levels and level set names defined in
the specified file to the current file.
Hiding Entities
To temporarily remove and restore selected entities in the graphics
window display, use the following Hide and Unhide functions,
available from the Screen menu.
Hide Entity
Use this function after selecting the entities you want to keep
in the graphics window. It temporarily removes all
unselected entities from view in the graphics window,
allowing you to focus on a small amount of geometry. If
hidden entities already exist in the file, this function acts as a toggle to
“unhide” them.
Unhide Some
You use this function only if you are already working with a
file that contains hidden entities. It displays only the entities
that are hidden and allows you to select the entities you want
to “unhide” and add back to the graphics window view.
Blanking Entities
You use the following Blank and Unblank Screen menu functions to
selectively remove and restore a limited number of entities from the
graphics window view.
Blank Entity
To reduce the complexity of the screen display, choose this
function and select the entities to remove from view in the
graphics window. You can select entities on any level.
DRAWING AND DESIGN BASICS / Power User Tips • 265
Unblank Entity
If blanked entities exist in the file, use this function to
“unblank” them and restore all previously blanked entities to
3
the graphics window.
37
Copying Entities
The Edit menu provides you with basic Cut, Copy and Paste functions.
You can also access these functions using their keyboard shortcuts,
[Ctrl+X], [Ctrl+C], and [Ctrl+V], respectively. These functions allow
38
you to cut, copy, and paste selected entities between different
Mastercam files.
Note: Cut entities to remove them from the existing file. To leave
the existing file unchanged, Copy the entities.
266 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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Notes:
• For many types of geometry creation, you use the AutoCursor in
4
conjunction with the selected Sketcher function to create and
edit entities. For more information, see “Using the AutoCursor
Ribbon Bar” on page 162.
• You can customize the Sketcher toolbar by adding or removing
functions. For more information, see “Customizing Toolbar
42
Functions” on page 87.
• Sketcher functions do not include drafting, transform, modify,
surfaces (with the exception of shapes), or solids (with the
exception of primitives).
43
Editing “Live” Entities 4
Mastercam provides flexible options for editing basic entities. When
you first create an entity, it is considered live and can be edited within
the ribbon bar or dialog box function you used to create it. The live
color is light blue by default, although you can customize it. Once the
45
entity becomes fixed, you must use other functions to edit it.
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7 Repeat Steps 3–6 until you are satisfied with the endpoints.
Creating Points
4
In this section you will learn to create points using the following
functions:
You access the point functions from the Sketcher toolbar point drop-
down list, or from the Create, Point submenu.
4
Figure 4-2: Sketcher Points drop-down list
45
46
TIPS: To exit a function: 47
• Click OK.
• Press the [Enter] key.
• Press the [Esc] key.
• Choose another function.
48
Create Point Position 49
For simple point creation, use the Point Position function to
sketch individual points by using the mouse to click and
create point positions in the graphics window. While a point
is live, use AutoCursor to set its position.
410
272 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: When you choose the next point position, the prior point
becomes a fixed entity.
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Use the Line and Point options to specify the type of entity to
create. You can create a line, a point, or both.
Use the Flip button to set the side of the selected entity on
which an offset point or line appears. (Flip has an effect only
when Offset is non-zero.)
Use the ribbon bar Offset field to create the point or line
perpendicular to the selected entity, offset by a specified
distance.
Use the Distance field to specify the distance along the entity
from its nearest endpoint where you want to create the point
or line. You can use the this field independently or in
conjunction with the Offset field.
When you are placing a point or line along a line or an arc, you can
create it beyond the selected entity, extended in either direction.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Points • 273
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47
Di
Note: This function creates points only along the physical entity.
49
No points are created on an extended projection of the entity.
410
274 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
s
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To create points at the center of arcs and circles, choose the Partial
arcs option. If this option is not selected, point will be created only in
the center of circles (closed arcs).
To delete the selected arcs and circles after the points have been
created, choose the Delete arcs option.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Lines • 275
Creating Lines
4
Mastercam offers a variety of flexible functions you use to quickly
create lines, including:
45
46
Create Line Endpoint
Use this simple but powerful function and ribbon bar to
47
create a variety of different line types with two endpoints,
including:
Angular and polar 48
Horizontal and vertical
Multiple lines connected at their endpoints
Lines tangent to arcs and splines
Figure 4-8: Create line endpoint ribbon bar
49
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410
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276 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
an exact position. The entity becomes fixed when you press Enter or
click the Apply button.
4
Creating Multiple Lines
To create connected multiple lines, choose the Multi-line option, then
click in the graphics window to set each of the connecting endpoints.
To complete the last line, double–click the final endpoint or press Esc.
42
Create Tangent Lines
Use the Tangent option to create lines that are tangent to arcs and
splines.
43
When creating a line tangent to an arc, first select the arc.
Mastercam dynamically draws the tangent line as you move
the cursor. When the line reaches the tangency you want, click
to set the second endpoint.
4
When creating a line tangent to a spline, first select the spline,
and then select the second endpoint. Mastercam creates a
tangent line, or displays a message if it cannot. 45
Notes:
To set the length of the bisecting line, enter a value in the Length field,
press Enter, then select the two lines to bisect.
t
en
th
it e
ng
ng
Ed
Le
Ta
To set the length of the perpendicular line, type a value in the Length
field and press Enter. Then select the entity and a position.
You can also use this ribbon bar to create a line perpendicular to a line
and tangent to an arc by choosing the Tangent option and selecting a
line or arc and then an arc or line. In this circumstance, Mastercam
creates multiple possibilities for perpendicular lines and you must
select the one to keep.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Lines • 279
Notes:
• To use the tangent feature of this ribbon bar, you must have at
4
least two entities in the graphics window, and one of them must
be an arc.
• When creating lines perpendicular to arcs, you can create the
line on an extended portion of the selected arc. 42
• When creating lines perpendicular to arcs or splines, select the
entity close to the area from which you want to draw the line.
43
Create Line Parallel
Choose this function to create a line parallel to an existing
line by selecting a line and clicking a point in the graphics
window. You can also use the ribbon bar fields to create a
4
line parallel to a line and tangent to an arc by selecting an
existing line and then an arc.
Figure 4-11: Create line parallel ribbon bar 45
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The parallel line is created at the same length as the existing line. To
offset the parallel line, enter a value in the Distance field then indicate
the offset direction.
Use the Flip option to set the position of the parallel line relative to the
47
primary line. This button has three toggle states:
Selected: (default) Creates a parallel line on the selected side
of the primary line.
Opposite: Creates a parallel line opposite the selected side of
48
the primary line.
Both: Creates a parallel line on both sides of the primary line.
Note: When creating tangent lines, you can create the line on an
49
extended portion of the selected entity.
410
280 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
th
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Notes:
• If you have the Length field locked, Mastercam creates two
tangent lines and asks you which line to keep.
• If you pick a tangent point that is not on a selected arc,
Mastercam moves the point onto the arc. It does this by
projecting the selected point along a vector from the point and
through the arc's center point.
• If you pick a tangent point that is not on a selected spline,
Mastercam moves the point onto the spline. It does this by using
the Nearest function to project the selected point.
• After you choose Edit Endpoint 1 or Edit Endpoint 2, you can
use AutoCursor to reposition the line’s endpoint.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Arcs and Circles • 281
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Alternatively, you can enter a value into either the Radius or Diameter
field to set the size of the circle and then click in the graphics window
to set the center point to position the circle.
You can use AutoCursor to position the center point and/or the edge
point of the arc. You can also create circles tangent to other entities.
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Alternatively, you can manually enter values in the ribbon bar fields to
set the circle size, start angle, and end angle. You can then select the
center point in the graphics window to position the arc and use
AutoCursor to position any or all of the three points of the arc.
You can also create arcs tangent to curves and points.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Arcs and Circles • 283
TIP: Use the Flip option to set the direction of the arc. This
button has two toggle states; clockwise (left) and
counterclockwise (right).
4
Notes:
• If you choose the Tangent button in the ribbon bar, you must
42
select an entity as the first edge point selection (radius and arc
start point). The selected entity is the tangent entity for the
resulting arc.
• To create a full circle, enter 0 for the start angle and 360 for the
43
end angle.
48
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oin
ep
int
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er
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po
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it e
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49
Create Arc Endpoints
You can create arcs with defined endpoints and one edge
point using this function. Click in the graphics window to set
410
the endpoints and then click to set the edge point.
284 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
er
nd
t
et
en
s
it e
diu
am
ng
Ra
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Ta
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You can also create arcs tangent to curves and points, and use
AutoCursor to position any or all of the three points of the arc.
Notes:
• If you choose the Tangent button in the ribbon bar, Mastercam
accepts any locations for the first two positions but you must
select an entity for the third position. The selected entity is the
tangent entity for the resulting arc.
• You can select up to two collinear points.
t
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42
Create Arc Tangent
Use this flexible function to create arcs with the following
tangent conditions:
43
Tangent to one, two, or three entities
Tangent through a point
Tangent with a centerline 4
Dynamically tangent (dynamically draws the arc with your
cursor movement)
You can also use this function to create circles tangent to three entities.
Figure 4-20: Create arc tangent ribbon bar
45
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46
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Create Polygon
Shapes(page 289)
Create Ellipse
45
(page 290) (page 291)
Bounding Box
(page 292)
Letters
(page 294) 46
Create Spiral Create Helix
(page 295) (page 296)
Solid to 2D Profile
(page 297)
Create Relief Groove
(page 298)
47
Create Bolt Circle Create Stair Geometry
(page 301)
Create Rectangle
This commonly used function lets you quickly create a
rectangle by defining two points. To draw the rectangle, click
to set the base point that anchors the rectangle. Then drag
the anchor point and click to set the second corner. You can
use AutoCursor to precisely position the two points on the rectangle.
Figure 4-22: Create rectangle ribbon bar
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Use other ribbon bar fields to draw the rectangle from a center point,
or create it as a surface within the rectangle. The rectangle remains a
live entity until you click the Apply button or click to start drawing
another rectangle.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Miscellaneous Shapes • 289
42
Create Rectangular Shapes
Use this function to dynamically create a rectangular shape
(rectangle, obround, single D, or double D), by choosing one
from the Shape section in the expanded dialog box.
43
Figure 4-23: Rectangular shapes dialog box (expanded)
4
45
46
47
48
49
410
290 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
You can create the shape using a base point or 2-point method. The
dialog box options change, depending on the method you select.
However, both methods let you set a corner fillet, rotation angle,
general shape, and surface creation.
2-Point Method
Choose this method and sketch a corner base point, then draw the
rectangle and sketch the second point. Use the AutoCursor to
change either the base point or second point.
Create Polygon
This function allows you to quickly create a polygon as
wireframe geometry and, optionally, a surface. Use the
Corner or Flat options to determine whether the radius is
measured from the base point to a corner, or to the midpoint
of a side.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Miscellaneous Shapes • 291
4
42
43
4
45
Create Ellipse
You can create an ellipse as wireframe geometry and,
optionally, a surface, using this function and dialog box. To
46
create a partial ellipse, enter a start angle greater than 0
degrees and/or an end angle less than 360 degrees.
47
48
49
410
292 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Bounding Box
Use this function to check the overall dimensions of a part by
creating a rectangular or cylindrical boundary around
selected entities. You can create the boundary as wireframe
geometry, a solid model, or a stock model.
Figure 4-26: Example: Bounding box
Bounding box
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Miscellaneous Shapes • 293
Rectangular Cylindrical 4
42
43
4
45
46
47
48
49
410
294 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Letters
The Create Letters dialog box allows you to add
alphanumeric characters consisting of lines, arcs, and
NURBS splines to your file. You can use one of the fonts
provided by Mastercam, including special drafting fonts, or
choose from any TrueType® font installed on your PC.
Figure 4-28: Create letters dialog box
Mastercam Fonts
Mastercam contains predefined letter fonts, including Block, Box,
Roman, and Slant, and a number of specialized drafting fonts, such as
Dayville, European, Hartford, Old English, and more. You can also
choose a custom font for letters by selecting Other from the font list
and navigating to the folder where your font is stored to select it.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Miscellaneous Shapes • 295
When you select a drafting font, you can choose the Drafting Options
button and format letters using the Drafting Options dialog box and
Note Text options. The Note Text parameters you define will overwrite
the Font and Height settings that appear in the Create Letters dialog
4
box.
TrueType Fonts 42
You can choose any TrueType font installed on your PC to format the
letters you create in Mastercam files. To use one of these fonts, choose
the TrueType button, select one from the Fonts dialog box and click
OK. 43
TIP: When using TrueType fonts, the height of the actual letters
may not match the value that you entered for letter height
because Mastercam scales the letters based on all of the
information encoded into the TrueType font, including blank
4
space around the letters. Use the Xform, Scale function to
resize them as needed.
45
Create Spiral
Use this flexible function to create spiral geometry as a series
of NURBS splines. You can specify the initial and final pitch
46
in both the XY and Z planes, set the number of revolutions or
height, and choose the direction (CW/CCW).
47
48
49
410
296 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: To create a spiral with a taper angle, use the Create, Helix
function.
Create Helix
This function lets you create a tapered spiral as a continuous
NURBS spline. You can define the inward and starting
angles, radius, number of revolutions or height, pitch, and
direction (CW/CCW).
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Miscellaneous Shapes • 297
4
42
43
Figure 4-32: Example: create helix 4
45
46
Note: To create a helix using dimensions in the XY and XZ planes,
use the Create, Spiral function.
47
Solid to 2D Profile 48
If you work with 3D solid models for manufacturing
purposes, you can use this function to easily extract 2D
geometry from a 3D solid in order to create the necessary
toolpaths.
49
The Solid to 2D Profile function blends together incremental 2D
profiles, or perpendicular slices, taken as the 3D solid is rotated along
a specified axis. The incremental cross-sections are blended together
to create one set of curves that represent the net outermost and
410
innermost 3D shape. You use the ribbon bar options to define the axis
298 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
of rotation, the incremental distance along the axis for creating each
profile, and the type of 2D output (lines/arcs, points, or spline).
Figure 4-33: Create Solid to 2D profile ribbon bar
t
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ep
pe
is
Ax
Se
St
Ty
The resulting 2D wire frame can be trimmed to allow for chaining and
used with other Mastercam functions.
You can view the resulting slices on the solid model before accepting
the 2D profile, and modify the increment and axis until you create an
acceptable result.
4
42
43
4
45
3 Choose the Select From Table button. In the Relief Groove
Table dialog box:
46
47
48
49
410
300 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIPS:
46
• Select Create Holes to create both arcs and center point
entities; deselect this option to create only the center points.
• The Create Bolt Circle function is useful when you are
running Mastercam Design, and you cannot access drill
47
toolpaths.
• You can also use Mastercam's Drill Point Selection function
(choose Toolpaths, Drill Toolpaths) to automatically drill bolt
circles without creating geometry.
48
Create Stair Geometry 49
This function is available only if your installation includes Mastercam
Router. Use the Create Stair Geometry function and dialog box to
create open and closed stair stringers. In the Stair dialog box, you
define a stair type and enter stair dimensions. You can also define stair
wedge and specify how stringers are displayed.
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302 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: The Stair rise and Stair angle fields are computed
automatically by Mastercam, based on the values you enter. These
fields cannot be directly edited.
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306 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
You can define the door features and attributes, such as such as color
and line style for the geometry, horizontal or vertical mullions, or a
radius for rounded corners. You can also make multiple copies of the
door you define.The picture below shows the door components that
require dimensions when using the Door dialog box.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Miscellaneous Shapes • 307
3 Select Mirror arch to copy and mirror the arch style on the
bottom of the door. 42
4 Enter the dimensions for the various heights and widths of the
door in the Door Dimensions section of the dialog box.
5 Click the Attributes buttons for the Outer Geometry and
Inner Geometry to edit options such as color, level, and line
43
style in the Attributes dialog box.
6 Select the Horizontal mullions check box to add horizontal
cross pieces to the panel. Enter values in the Mullion width
and Number of mullions fields.
4
7 Choose an option from the Space mullions from drop-down
menu to determine the vertical placement of the horizontal
mullion.
8 Select the Vertical mullions check box to add vertical cross
45
pieces to the panel. Enter values for in the Mullion width and
Number of mullions fields.
9 Enter an arc radius in the Outside corner radius field to create
rounded corners on the door.
46
10 Select the Multiple copies check box and button to create
copies of the door.
11 Select Export to separate MCX files to output door geometry
47
to separate MCX files or to a specified directory. Click the
Browse button to designate a path for exported MCX files.
12 Click OK to close the dialog box.
Fillet Entities
Before you select the entities to which you will apply the
fillet, use the Fillet ribbon bar fields to define the fillet style
(normal, inverse, circle, clearance) and enter the necessary
radius value. You can also define whether to trim the
selected lines to the fillet. Trimming is set as the default so if you do
not want the entities trimmed, just deselect the Trim button.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Fillets and Chamfers • 309
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When you move you mouse near an entity, Mastercam displays a
preview of the fillet, if one can be created with an adjacent entity. To
42
immediately create the fillet as a fixed entity, click one of the
previewed entities.
Note: This function does not recognize chains. Use the Fillet Chain 43
function to fillet chained entities.
Fillet Chains 4
Use this function to fillet entities that have sharp corners
and can be recognized as a single chained entity (i.e.,
rectangles and polygons). The ability to fillet only inside or
outside corners of a chained boundary is particularly useful
45
during geometry creation for wire EDM parts (punches and dies).
These parts often require different radius values on inside and outside
corners in order to provide adequate corner clearance.
When you choose this function, the Fillet Chains ribbon bar displays
46
and the Chaining dialog box opens. Use the dialog box options and
cursor to chain the entities to fillet. When you close the Chaining
dialog box, a preview of the chained entities appears in the graphics
window with the fillet entities highlighted. 47
Figure 4-40: Fillet chains ribbon bar
48
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To edit the resulting fillets, use the ribbon bar fields. To accept them,
click Apply. 49
Chamfer Entities
Use this function to apply chamfers to existing entities.
Before you select the entities to chamfer, choose the chamfer
410
method and enter the necessary distance and angle values.
310 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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Select the first entity. As you move the mouse over the second entity, a
preview of the chamfer displays. When you select the second entity,
the chamfer is immediately created as a fixed entity.
Notes:
• To chamfer chained geometry, use the Chamfer Chains
function.
• You can chamfer arcs using the 1 Distance and 2 Distance
methods.
Chamfer Chains
This function allows you to chain entities and create
chamfers at sharp corners. When you choose this function,
the Chamfer Chains ribbon bar appears and the Chaining
dialog box opens. Use the dialog box options and cursor to
chain the entities to chamfer. When you close the Chaining dialog box,
a preview of the chained entities appears in the graphics window with
the chamfer entities highlighted.
Figure 4-42: Chamfer chains ribbon bar
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To edit the resulting chamfers, use the ribbon bar fields. To accept
them, press the Apply button.
The Style field in the Chamfer Chains ribbon bar is a multi-purpose
field that is used in conjunction with the Distance/Width field, which
is also a multi-purpose field. You use these fields to set both the
chamfer distance and width.
To set the chamfer distance, choose 1 Distance from the Style
field list, then type the distance to use in the Distance/Width
field.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Fillets and Chamfers • 311
To set the chamfer width, choose Width from the Style field
and type the width in the Distance/Width field.
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312 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Creating Splines
Mastercam provides a number of functions that define the method
used to create a spline. Their corresponding ribbon bars allow you to
further define the resulting geometry. Spline functions include:
TIP: When a spline is live, use the ribbon bar fields to edit it.
Notes:
• To set the default spline type (Parametric, NURBS, curve-
generated) choose Settings, Configuration, CAD Settings, and
select a Spline / Surface creation type.
• You use the AutoCursor to specify point positions only with the
Manual spline function.
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314 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIPS:
• You can create a closed spline by selecting the same point for
the first and last points.
• Mastercam uses a combination of distance and direction
from point to point to place the points in a sensible order. To
avoid distorting the intended shape of the spline, delete or
blank extraneous points.
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Use the Start Point and End Point fields to define the tangent vector of
the spline’s endpoints. Choose from the following selections.
3 Pt Arc: Sets the endpoint tangent vector to the endpoint of
an arc Mastercam calculates from the spline’s first or last three
points, based on whether you are defining the Start or End
point condition.
Natural: Sets the endpoint tangent vector to Mastercam’s
calculation of the optimal tangency condition that results in a
minimal curve length. This is the default end condition.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Splines • 315
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You can set a deviation tolerance that determines how closely each
resulting spline matches the selected curves, and you can choose to
keep, blank, or delete the original curves once the splines have been
46
created, or move them to a different level.
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316 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Creating Curves
When working with surfaces and solids, use functions in the Create,
Curves submenu to generate curves on solid and surface edges.
Notes:
• For untrimmed NURBS and parametric spline surfaces,
Mastercam creates exact curves where possible. Chord height,
tolerance-fitted curves are created for all other surface types.
• For trimmed surface edges, a chord height, tolerance-fitted
cubic NURBS curve is created.
4
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43
4
Create Curve on One Edge
Use this function to create a curve on a single surface edge. 45
Figure 4-49: Create curve on one edge ribbon bar
46
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After you select a surface, move the dynamic arrow to the edge on
which you want to create the curve. Then enter a break angle and press
[Enter].
47
Mastercam looks ahead on the straight line of the surface edge and
calculates the end of the edge at the point where the line turns by a
value greater than or equal to the defined break angle.
48
Create Curve on All Edges
Choose this function when you want to create curves on all the
edges of a surface, solid body, or solid face. When you select all
49
edges, you also have the option to create curves only on edges
that do not share other edges (open edges).
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318 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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Create Constant Parameter Curve
This function allows you to create a curve in one or both
surface directions at a fixed position (constant parameter) on
the surface.
Figure 4-51: Create constant parameter curve ribbon bar
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Choose the curve quality and select a surface in the graphics window.
After you select the surface, Mastercam displays a dynamic arrow on
the surface. You can move the arrow to the point on the surface where
you want to create the curve.
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Use the ribbon bar fields to define the number of curves to create and
how closely the curves fit the surface on which they are created.
42
After setting the curve quantity and quality, select a surface in the
graphics window. As soon as you select the surface, the curves are
created and remain live. While the curves are live, you can edit both
the number and the surface fit of the curves.
43
Create Dynamic Curve 4
Use this function to create curves on surfaces. When you select
the surface on which to create the curve, a dynamic arrow
appears and you are prompted to create the endpoints of the
curve and any additional points along the curve. 45
Figure 4-53: Create dynamic curve ribbon bar
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To finish the curve, double-click the last endpoint or press [Enter]. The
curve appears and remains live. While the curve remains live, you can
change the chord height but not the endpoint locations.
47
Note: The resulting curve passes through the points in the order
you enter them. You must enter a minimum of two points, one for
each endpoint of the curve.
48
Create Curve Slice 49
You can create curves on surfaces and points on curves by
slicing selected surfaces and solids with a plane. When you use
this function, Mastercam creates the curves along the
intersections of the plane with the selected entities. You can choose to
create the curves at offset positions, to create curves at a defined
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320 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
spacing interval from the intersections, and to join the resulting curves
into one entity.
Figure 4-54: Create curve slice ribbon bar
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Set all the options on the ribbon bar, press [Enter], select the surface,
and press Apply.
While the curves or points are live, you can change any of the settings
and watch the entities change dynamically. When finished, press
[Enter] again to fix the curves or points.
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In the following graphic, the red line represents the parting line curve,
where the surface wraps out of view. The green lines represent the
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Curves • 321
front of the surface (positive surface normal), and the gray lines
represent the back of the surface (negative surface normal).
4
42
Notes:
• This function is often used with mold-making.
• This function uses the construction plane (Cplane) to determine
43
what line(s) to create.
4
Create Curve at Intersection
Choose this function to create curves at the intersections
between two sets of surfaces. Mastercam pairs each entity in
the first set with each entity in the second set and creates
45
curves at the intersecting locations.
Figure 4-56: Create curve at intersection ribbon bar
46
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The following graphics show two shaded intersecting surfaces, and the
47
same surfaces in wireframe view.
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322 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
The red lines in the wireframe picture are the curves that were created
along the surface intersections.
TIP: When this ribbon bar first displays, its options are
unavailable until you select both sets of surfaces, as indicated
by the interactive prompts that appears in the graphics window.
If you choose to intersect only surfaces, you may select them in one set
containing a minimum of two surfaces. In this case, Mastercam
attempts to create curves by pairing each surface in the set with every
other surface in the set. In certain instances, however, having only one
set of surfaces could prove more time consuming.
For example, if you have multiple surface walls and a single surface
floor in one set, Mastercam looks for intersections between all walls
and the floor. If, however, you select the walls as one set of surfaces
and the floor as the second set of surfaces, Mastercam looks for
intersections only between each wall and the floor.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Primitives • 323
Creating Primitives
4
Mastercam makes it easy to create primitive surfaces. You can sketch
them in 3D, enter specific values, or use a combination of these
techniques. If your installation includes Mastercam Solids, you can
optionally create solid primitives. In this section, you will learn to use
42
the following functions to create primitive shapes.
Create Block
Use this function create a block primitive as a solid or
surface model. To draw the block, click in the graphics
window to set the base point, drag outward to set the length
and width, then drag up or down to set the height.
While the block is live, use the dialog box fields to adjust the
dimensions, extend it in any of the three directions, select a new base
point, rotate it, or change the primary axis.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Primitives • 325
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Create Cone
To create a cone primitive as a solid or surface model,
choose this function. To draw the cone, click in the graphics 49
window to set the base point, drag outward to set the radius,
then drag up or down to set the height. While the cone is live,
use the dialog box fields to adjust the dimensions, extend it in two
directions, select a new base point, change the primary axis, set the
top radius, or change the sweep to create a slice of a cone.
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326 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Create Cylinder
You can create a cylinder primitive as a solid or surface
model using this function. To draw the cylinder, click in the
graphics window to set the base point, drag outward to set
the radius, then drag up or down to set the height. While the
cylinder is live, use the dialog box fields to adjust the dimensions,
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Primitives • 327
extend the cylinder in two directions, select a new base point, change
the primary axis, or change the sweep to create a slice of a cylinder.
Figure 4-60: Create primitive cylinder dialog box (expanded)
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Create Sphere 48
This function allows you to create a sphere as a solid or
surface model. Draw the sphere by clicking in the graphics
window to set the base point. Then drag outward to set the
radius. While the sphere is live, use the dialog box fields to
49
change the base point, radius, and sweep angle.
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328 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Create Torus
Choose this function to create a torus as a solid or surface
model. Draw the torus by clicking in the graphics window to
set the base point, and dragging outward to set the major
radius. After setting the major radius, drag the minor radius
to the position you want then click to set the minor radius and create
the torus. While the torus is live, use the dialog box fields to change the
base point, major and minor radius, sweep angle and the axis.
CREATING GEOMETRY / Creating Primitives • 329
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330 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
chapter 5
Modifying Geometry
Mastercam offers a variety of functions and techniques you use
to modify geometry. In this chapter, you will learn about:
Editing Entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 332
Transforming Entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 343
Analyzing Entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 365
Changing Entity Attributes. . . . . . . . . . . . . page 377
332 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Editing Entities
You access basic editing functions from the Edit menu or Trim / Break
toolbar in order to:
Modify or join lines, arcs, splines, and drafting entities.
Convert certain types of entities to NURBS splines and
NURBS surfaces.
Simplify splines by breaking them into arcs and lines.
This topic introduces these functions and includes examples of how to
use them.
In this section, you will learn about each Trim / Break submenu
function, including:
Trim / Break / Extend (page 333)
Trim Many (page 336)
Break Two Pieces (page 337)
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Editing Entities • 333
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When this ribbon bar appears, you can begin trimming to one entity
by selecting the entity to trim then selecting an entity in the location
56
you want to trim to. Or, you can trim two entities by selecting the first
entity then double–clicking the second. For other ribbon bar options
(for example, Trim 3 entities, or Trim to length), choose the option,
then select one or more entities and specify parameters, as necessary.
57
Trim 1 Entity
The following examples illustrate how to use the Trim 1 option to
select and trim a vertical line to a horizontal line. The result varies 58
depending on where you select the vertical line (the entity to trim)
before selecting the horizontal line (the entity to which you are
trimming). The visual cue (+) in the left-most image shows where you
select the vertical line; the right-most image shows the resulting trim
after you select the horizontal line.
59
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334 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Example 1
Example 2
Trim 2 Entities
The next examples show how to use the Trim 2 option to select and
trim two lines to their intersection. Again, the result varies depending
on where you select the lines.
Figure 5-2: Example Trim 2
Trim 3 Entities
The following example illustrates how to use the Trim 3 option. The
first two entities that you select are trimmed to the third, which acts as
5
a trimming curve. The third entity is then trimmed to the first two. This
function is useful for trimming two lines to a circle that is tangent to
both lines. You select the arc last, and the results vary depending on
whether you click the top or the bottom of the arc (the portion you
want to keep).
52
Figure 5-4: Example Trim 3
53
54
Divide Entities
When you choose the Divide function and select an entity in the
5
graphics window, Mastercam uses the nearest two intersections on
each end to divide the entity. It trims the line or arc into two disjointed
segments by removing the segment that lies between two dividing
intersections. The following example shows a line trimmed between 56
two arcs.
Figure 5-5: Example Trim Divide
57
58
Note: If only one intersection exists, the selected entity is trimmed
to the single intersection. If no intersection is found on the selected
entity, no change occurs. 59
Trim to Point
Use this option to trim or extend an entity to a point or any defined
position in the graphics window. If the point that you enter does not lie 510
on the selected entity, Mastercam calculates the closest position on
the entity and trims the entity to that point. The following example
336 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
shows an arc that is trimmed (in this case, extended) to a point that
does not lie on the curve.
Figure 5-6: Example Trim to Point
Trim to Length
This option makes it easy to trim or extend a selected entity based on a
specified length. To use this option, first type a value in the Length
field. Then select an entity endpoint in the graphics window. The
specified value will be added to or subtracted from the endpoint of the
selected entity.
To extend the entity beyond the selected endpoint, type a
positive number.
To trim the entity from the selected endpoint, type a negative
number.
Note: If you select the entity before setting a value in the Length
field, the default value is used (0.1 inch or 1 mm, based on the
current configuration unit setting).
Trim / Break
Use these buttons to toggle between trimming or breaking the entities
you have selected in the graphics window. Selecting Break
automatically extends selected entities that do not intersect.
Trim Many
The Trim Many function and ribbon bar lets you trim (or
break) multiple lines, arcs, or splines to a selected entity
without modifying the trimming curve.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Editing Entities • 337
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After choosing this function, select one or more entities to trim. Then
choose the entity to trim to and indicate the side of the trimming curve
52
you want to keep. You can preview the results before accepting the
changes. Before accepting the change, you can also flip the results
from one side of the trimming curve to the other, and switch the
results between trimming or breaking the selected entities. The
example below shows four arcs that are trimmed to a line. The dashed
53
line shows the portion of each arc that is trimmed, which varies
depending on which side of the curves you select to keep.
54
5
Note: When you choose the Break option rather than Trim, it
56
disables the Flip function and the option to select a side of the
trimming curve to keep.
break. Then, press Enter or choose the end selection function in the
General Selection ribbon bar to break the selected entities where they
intersect.
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TIP: Use the Close arc or Join entities functions to join arcs
5
into circles.
Close Arc 56
Use this function to select and convert all arcs that are less
than 360 degrees to complete circles by extending their ends
to close the arc. 57
In addition to the trim / break /extend functions, the Edit
menu also includes the following functions you use to join and modify
entities:
Note: If the two entities you select to join have different attributes,
Mastercam creates a new entity using the attributes of the first
entity you select. For example, if you select a dashed line and a
solid line, the lines are joined to create a single dashed line.
Modify Spline
Use this function to change the shape of a NURBS or
parametric spline entity. From Mastercam's menu, choose
Edit, Modify Spline, and then select a spline entity. All entity
control points appear in yellow and remain visible for as
long as you work with the selected entity.
To modify the selected entity, click and drag a control point.
Mastercam draws the modified shape or surface using a dashed line
style in the highlight color. This drawing style lets you easily
distinguish the modified entity from the original.
Before accepting a change, preview the modification, based on the
new control point position. To accept the new position, click again to
release the control point. Continue to select control points, or exit the
function by pressing [Enter].
Convert NURBS
This function allows you to:
Convert lines, arcs, and parametric splines to
NURBS splines.
Convert curve-generated and parametric surfaces to NURBS
surfaces.
When you choose this function, no ribbon bar appears but the
function is active and you are prompted to select a line, arc, spline or
surface to convert to a NURBS entity. After selecting one or more
entities, press Enter to convert them.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Editing Entities • 341
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Notes: 56
• Use this function when working with file conversions if
geometry that is supposed to denote circles, arcs, or lines
appears as splines.
• The Xform menu provides additional functions you can use to 57
modify entities. For more information on using Xform
functions, see “Transforming Entities” on page 343.
Set Normal
58
Use this function to set the direction of multiple surface normals to the
current construction plane (Cplane). You can select surfaces before or
after choosing the function. 59
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342 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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Change Normal
This function makes it easy to view and reverse a surface normal.
When prompted, select a surface. A normal direction arrow displays.
Figure 5-11: Change normal ribbon bar
Click the surface to reverse its normal. You can then select another
surface, or click OK to finalize your changes.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 343
Transforming Entities
5
Transforming entities is similar to editing, but offers more advanced
functions for manipulating fixed entities. In a single operation, you
can move selected entities and optionally create copies of them by
mirroring, rotating, scaling, offsetting, translating, stretching, rolling,
52
and dragging. With some transform functions, you can also join the
copied entities to the originals to quickly and easily create more
complex geometry.
When transforming entities, you can preview and modify the results
53
before accepting them. Previewing lets you view a detailed live image
of the move, copy, or join results set in the graphics window, placed in
the position you choose in the function dialog box or ribbon bar. To
conserve resources when transforming, scaling, mirroring, or rotating
54
larger models (for example, those containing multiple solids and
surfaces or a large number of entities), instead of detailed entities, the
preview image is a 3D cube or a 2D rectangle sized in proportion to the
results set area. 5
You access transform functions from the Xform menu or toolbar. In
this section, you will learn to use the following functions to modify
geometry:
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346 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• To translate between different views (planes), use the Translate
3D function.
• When you translate and join entities, duplicate lines sometimes
result and can interfere with chaining. You can configure
Mastercam to automatically delete duplicate lines created
during a join operation by selecting Delete duplicate entities in
File, Open on the Files property page in the System
Configuration dialog box.
• When performing a transform function, Mastercam creates a
temporary group from the originals (red) and a result (purple)
from the transformed entities. These system groups appear in
the Groups dialog box. However, they stay in effect only until
you use the Screen, Clear Colors function or perform another
transform function.
• If you are transforming multiple solids, multiple surfaces, or a
large number of lines or arcs, and the Preview check box is
selected, Mastercam displays a 3D cube (for 3D geometry) or a
2D rectangle (for 2D geometry) as a preview. The final geometry
only displays when you choose OK or Apply.
• All edit fields are reset to 0 (zero) each time you enter the dialog
box. You can enter a value or select a value from the MRU (most
recently used) drop-down list.
• When translating entities, if intersecting entities have been
partially selected using a window selection method, you can
optionally stretch (lengthen or shorten) selected lines. Lines are
stretched when they cross or intersect the window used to select
the entities. The line endpoints that lie within the selection
window are translated, while the endpoints that lie outside the
selection window maintain their original positions.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 347
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The translation result remains live until you accept it. This flexibility
allows you to preview and flip the direction of the results, or create
results in both directions.
58
Xform Translate 3D
Use this function to move or create copies of selected
59
entities between views (from one plane to another) without
altering their orientation, size, or shape.
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348 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Xform Mirror
You can create mirror images of geometric and drafting
entities with this function. The entities are reflected
symmetrically with respect to the axis you choose, including:
Horizontal axis of the current construction plane
Vertical axis of the current construction plane
Specified angle
Selected line
Theoretical line defined between two points
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 349
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Figure 5-17: Example Rotate rectangle
53
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Xform Scale 56
Scaling allows you to increase or decrease the size of entities
by a factor or percentage relative to a defined point. You can
scale all geometric and drafting entity types using either a
uniform or XYZ scale method. 57
Uniform: Scales the entities by a single factor or percentage
on all three axes. The entities change size while maintaining
their original shape.
XYZ: Applies a different scale factor or percentage to each of
58
the axes (XYZ). The entities not only change size but may
change shape as well, appearing to be stretched or squeezed
from their original shape.
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352 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
When scaling selected entities, you can also choose to move, copy or
join them.
Note: If you apply XYZ scaling to a solid, the solid’s history is lost
and the resulting entity is a brick.
Xform Offset
Use this function to offset one entity at a time. You can move
or copy a single entity parallel to the original; displacing it by
a defined distance and direction. The direction is
perpendicular to the entity along every point, and relative to
the current construction plane.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 353
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5
You can create multiple copies and use the Direction button to create
parallel entities on either side of the selected entity or on both sides.
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354 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: When you offset the boundary inward, the system trims the
boundary at corners.
52
Xform Project 53
When you choose this function, Mastercam offers a variety
of different methods you can use to project selected entities,
including:
Depth: Projects selected entities to the Z-depth you
54
choose in the current construction plane.
Plane: Projects selected entities in various positions in 3D
space and squashes them into a flat, 2D plane. Mastercam
converts NURBS splines if they are not parallel to the
5
construction plane.
Surface: Projects curves onto surfaces and solids.
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When projecting points onto surfaces, select the Points / Lines check
box and button to access the Project Points dialog box.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 357
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53
Use this dialog box to optionally:
Create additional points and lines from the preview
54
Specify line length
Flip the results of the lines without having to flip the surface
normal or use a negative value for the length
Output the results to a named APT or XYZ file format
5
Xform Rectangular Array
This function makes it easy to quickly create an array (grid)
56
of entities by copying selected entities simultaneously in one
or two directions, relative to the construction plane. For each
direction, you can specify a unique number of copies to
create, and the offset distance and angle.
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358 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Xform Roll
Use the Xform Roll function to wrap lines, arcs, and splines
about an axis as though around a cylinder, or unwrap rolled
entities to make them lie flat.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 359
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57
Xform Drag
Use the mouse with the Xform Drag function and ribbon bar
options to select entities and dynamically move or copy
them to a new position by dragging and translating or
rotating them.
Figure 5-25: Xform Drag ribbon bar
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Notes:
• You cannot drag shaded surfaces.
• The Translate, Rotate and other Xform functions offer more
advanced and precise transformation methods than are
available by dragging entities.
Xform Stretch
Use this function to stretch entities within a single, 2D plane.
You can stretch all geometric and drafting entity types using:
Rectangular coordinates (X, Y, Z)
Polar coordinates (vector and length)
Points (between two locations)
Before accepting the stretch, you can preview and flip the results. You
can even create results in both original and flipped directions.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 361
Xform STL
STL is an acronym for StereoLithography, a 3D model file
type developed by 3D Systems, Inc. An STL file is a large
collection of oriented triangles that represent surface and
solid models. If you work with STL files, you use this function
to mirror, rotate, scale, offset, and translate STL files.
Select the Bounding Box check box and button to access the Bounding
Box dialog box, and create rectangular or cylindrical boundary around
the STL file.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Transforming Entities • 363
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5
You can save the results to the same file or to a new file.
Use the step angle option on the Parts tab to control part
rotation.
Change the spacing between parts.
When material surface finish is the same on both sides of
the material, use Mirror to flip parts horizontally.
TIPS:
• Have Mastercam create as many sheets as needed to
accommodate the number of parts by choosing Create
necessary sheets on the Sheets tab.
• On the Parts tab, use Fill all sheets to have Mastercam
automatically create parts to fill up the material (up to 3500
parts per sheet). Use Filler Quantity to create a specific
number of parts within the nested area.
• Use colors and levels to organize results by setting these
options in the Nesting configuration dialog box.
• Save common sheet sizes to sheet libraries or in individual
MCX files.
• Save common parts in MCX files.
• When you require a controlled number of each part in the
nesting results, create a group.
• To read a detailed report about the nesting results, choose
Details in the Nesting Results dialog box.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Analyzing Entities • 365
Analyzing Entities
5
Use the Analyze menu functions to retrieve analytical data for most
elements that appear in the graphics window. This includes the
following entity information: 52
entity type properties 2D and surface
(including solids) areas
database properties
distances
positions
chains
53
contours angles
For most functions, you can modify some or all of the information in
analyze dialog box fields.
54
This topic defines each analyze function and provides you with
general instructions for its use. Analyze menu functions include:
Analyze Distance
(page 368)
Area / Volume submenu
(page 369)
56
Analyze Chain Analyze Contour
(page 370)
Analyze Angle
(page 372)
Analyze Dynamic
57
(page 373) (page 373)
Database / Number
Submenu
(page 374)
Test Surfaces and Solids
Submenu (page 376) 58
Changing Entity
Attributes
(page 377) 59
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366 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
When you select more than one entity to analyze, a single properties
dialog box appears for the first entity type. The left and right arrow
buttons in the dialog box indicate that you are analyzing more than
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Analyzing Entities • 367
one entity, and allow you to cycle through the previous or next entity in
the selection group.
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The Analyze function remains active until you press the Esc key or
close the properties dialog box, allowing you to select and analyze
additional entities.
Entity attribute fields for Level, Color, line Style and Width, or Point
53
style appear in all properties dialog boxes. Use these fields to modify
the attributes of a single entity, or use the Propagate Attribute
Changes apply button to assign the same attributes to all selected
entities. (This button is available only when multiple entities are
selected or when attributes are changed.)
54
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56
Analyze Position
You can view the XYZ coordinates of a selected position or
point entity using the Analyze Position function.
57
Figure 5-30: Analyze Position dialog box
58
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This function remains active until you close the dialog box so you can
continue to select and analyze different points or positions.
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368 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Analyze Distance
Use this function to analyze the distance between two
selected entities or positions by creating one or more
theoretical lines.
Figure 5-31: Analyze Distance dialog box
Analyze Chain
This function allows Mastercam to analyze the chains you
select in order to identify one or more subtle problems that
might be overlooked, including:
Only overlapping entities that are adjacent or all overlapping
entities, regardless of their relative position.
Positions where the chain reverses direction by a value that
exceeds the minimum angle you specify.
Short entities; those with a length smaller than the maximum
length value you define.
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Analyzing Entities • 371
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After analyzing the selected chains, Mastercam reports the number of
each type of problem it finds and highlights the problem areas in the
5
graphics window.
Figure 5-36: Example: Analyze Chain summary
56
57
You can optionally create geometry to mark problem areas as they are
detected during the analyze process. This geometry helps you zoom in
on problem areas in order to fix them. Mastercam creates red arcs
58
(circles) for overlapping entities, yellow point entities for direction
reversals, and blue arcs (circles) for short entities.
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Analyze Contour
Use the Analyze Contour function to generate a text report
containing the properties of all the entities in one or more
chained curves. The curves can contain lines, arcs, or points
(no splines). You can analyze either 2D or 3D contours. For
2D contours, you can analyze a contour which is offset from the
chained curve, and which uses cornering options, simulating a simple
contour toolpath.
Figure 5-37: Analyze Contour dialog box
The generated report opens in your default text editor and lists the
properties of each entity in the chained curves. Before saving the file to
a specified location, you can view and edit the data or add comments,
as necessary.
5
Analyze Angle 52
This simple function lets you analyze the angles between
two lines or three point that you select in the graphics
window. Mastercam displays values for the first angle and
the supplementary angle. 53
Figure 5-39: Analyze Angle dialog box
54
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You can also choose a method for measuring the angle:
Cplane: Shows the angle based on the current Cplane.
3D: Shows the actual angle of the lines in the plane they
define.
57
Note: If the lines do not lie in the same plane and do not intersect,
only the Cplane option is available; the 3D option is unavailable. 58
Analyze Dynamic
You can dynamically view information on any position you
59
choose along an entity. When you select the entity, you use
the cursor to move the arrow endpoint that appears along
the entity to the position you want to analyze.
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374 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
The information that appears in the dialog box fields for the selected
entity type includes:
Lines—Point and tangent XYZ coordinates.
Arcs and splines—Point and tangent XYZ coordinates and the
radius of curvature.
Surfaces and solid faces—Point XYZ coordinates, the normal
XYZ coordinates, and the minimum radius of curvature.
In the Vector section, you can type a length to view the corresponding
endpoint XYZ coordinates of the vector.
Analyze Number
Use this function to easily identify and view the properties of
an entity using only the entity number (a database property
automatically assigned to all entities).
MODIFYING GEOMETRY / Analyzing Entities • 375
5
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When you type the number of the entity you want to analyze and
choose OK, the properties dialog box for the entity appears and the
selected entity is highlighted in the graphics window. 53
Notes:
• You can also use the Analyze Entity Properties function to
select one or more entities to analyze in the graphics window. 54
• To identify the entity number of a specific entity, use the
Analyze Database function.
Analyze Database
5
This function provides database-related information about a
selected entity. You can view the entity number, creation
date and time, and number of references for associations to 56
the entity including:
Geometry (surfaces and dimensions)
Solids
Toolpaths
57
Figure 5-42: Database Properties dialog box
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376 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
This function remains active until you close the dialog box, allowing
you to continue to select and analyze the database properties of
different entities.
TIP: You can also use the Status bar Color, Point style, Line
style, Line width, and Level fields to modify the specific
attribute for selected entities, or for entities you will create in the
5
current session.
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chapter 6
Toolpath Types
Mastercam includes an extensive number of intelligent
toolpath functions you can use to quickly build toolpaths for
specific applications. Your ability to access toolpath types and
features depends on both your license level and the capabilities
of the active machine and control definition. Most of the
Mastercam Mill toolpaths described in this section are also
available if your installation includes Mastercam Router and
the appropriate Plus or Pro license, or Mastercam Lathe for
mill/turn applications.
In this chapter, you will learn about the different toolpath types
you can create in Mastercam, including:
Mill and Router Toolpaths (page 383)
Additional Router Toolpaths (page 422)
Surface Toolpaths (page 432)
Multiaxis Toolpaths (page 523)
Lathe Toolpaths (page 578)
Nesting Toolpaths (page 608)
Engraving Toolpaths (page 612)
Notes:
• If your Mastercam installation includes Mastercam
Wire, you can also create toolpaths (wirepaths) for EDM
machines. For more information, refer to the
“Mastercam X2 Wire Getting Started Guide” PDF located
in your Mastercam installation \Documentation folder.
• If Mastercam Art is installed, you can create Art
toolpaths for your Art models using the Art, Toolpath
Art Base Surface function from the Mastercam menu.
For more information, refer to the online Help or the
“Mastercam X2 Art Tutorial” PDF in your Mastercam
\Documentation folder.
382 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: Mills that support multiaxis toolpaths also support the other
6
types of toolpaths described in this section.
TIPS: 68
• When working with toolpaths, you can use functions to
transform, trim, or wrap the toolpath around a cylinder with
axis substitution.
• To wrap the toolpath, choose the Rotary axis check box and
69
button in the Toolpath Parameters tab for the selected
operation.
• For more information on how to transform or trim operations,
see “Transforming Operations” on page 804 and “Trimming
Toolpaths” on page 807.
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Contour Toolpaths
Use contour toolpaths to drive the tool along a path. This toolpath type
is appropriate for both roughing and finishing applications. Contour
toolpaths remove material along a path defined by a chain of curves;
they do not clean out an enclosed area. You can also cut the contour in
depth cuts and/or multiple passes in the cutting plane, and create
remachining operations.
When creating contour toolpaths, you can select an unlimited number
of chains for each toolpath, creating either 2D or 3D contour
toolpaths.
2D contour toolpaths cut geometry in a single plane (typically
XY) at a constant depth (Z), although you can create multiple
passes at different depths. Mastercam automatically selects
this type if all the geometry lies in the same plane.
3D contour toolpaths cut geometry in XY and Z, where the Z
depth can vary over the toolpath. Use this type if the geometry
for each cutting pass is not contained within a single plane.
To begin creating a contour toolpath, choose Contour Toolpath from
the Toolpaths menu. After chaining geometry and selecting a tool, use
the Contour parameters tab to choose a contour type and enter values
for different cutting parameters and compensation options. Select
check boxes in the lower right of the dialog box to activate advanced
toolpath features. These let you create lead in/out moves, depth cuts,
multiple cutting passes, and filter toolpaths for more efficient output.
6
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Chamfer Contour Toolpaths
Use this toolpath type to cut a chamfer around a contour as a stand-
66
alone operation. For example, to cut a contour 30mm deep with a
2mm chamfer, create one toolpath to cut the contour to the desired
depth. Then create a separate contour chamfer toolpath to place the
2mm chamfer. 6
68
69
To begin creating a chamfer toolpath, choose Contour toolpath from
the Toolpaths menu. After chaining geometry and selecting a tool, use
the Contour parameters tab to choose the Chamfer button. Then set 610
the chamfer dimensions in the Chamfering dialog box.
386 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Typically when creating a chamfer toolpath, you will set the Depth (on
the Contour parameters tab) to 0.0 relative to the chained geometry
and let Mastercam calculate the tool depth from the chamfer
dimensions. Enter a non-zero depth, (+) or (-), only if you want to
locate the top of the chamfer at a distance from the chained geometry.
• Bull-nose cutter
• Ball (spherical) cutter
• Chamfer mill
Mastercam will figure out how much stock would be left based
on the size of a roughing tool that you enter.
The tolerance value also affects the toolpath. A low tolerance creates a
more accurate toolpath. For remachining, a low tolerance may result
6
in more areas being machined. If you type the tolerance value
information into one value field, the other value field automatically
recalculates. (For pocket toolpaths, use the Advanced dialog box to set
the remachining tolerance.)
62
If you choose the Display stock option, Mastercam will lead you
through a series of previews which display the calculated stock to be
removed and how much of that stock would be removed with the
current remachining settings.
63
Notes:
• If you base a remachining operation on a previous operation,
and then change the order of the operations in the Toolpath
64
Manager so that the remachining operation is before the
roughing operation, the remachining operation will not be able
to correctly calculate the area of the roughing operation.
• Do not use compensation in control with remachining
65
operations.
• Contour remachining “keep tool down” moves between
remachining passes are not gouge checked! Take the necessary
precautions to eliminate the risk of gouging. This applies only
66
for contour remachining toolpaths, and only if you choose the
option to “keep tool down” for depth cuts or multiple passes.
Notes:
• The Top of stock that you enter in the Contour parameters tab
sets the maximum Z height for the oscillating contour toolpath.
However, the tool will not exceed the maximum Z depth that
you specify in the Oscillate Contour dialog box.
• The Distance along contour that you set in the Oscillate
Contour dialog box determines how far the tool moves in X or Y
before changing direction in the Z axis.
• If you edit the operation and modify the tool, Mastercam
automatically verifies that the flute length of the tool is
sufficient. A message warns you if the flute length is less than
the overall oscillation distance.
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Mastercam also provides options for editing and cutting off the tabs.
Use the procedures below to learn more about:
Creating tabs
Editing tabs (page 393)
Notes:
• If a tab position will overlap a corner, the tab will wrap around
64
it.
• Additional options let you specify a size threshold for creating
tabs, so that Mastercam creates only tabs that meet or exceed
the dimensions you define. This avoids creating tabs for smaller
65
parts where they are not necessary.
tab locations. You can also change the size and shape of an
individual tab.
Note: The Edit tabs option is available only when you right-click
on a chain; it does not appear if you click elsewhere in the Chain
Manager dialog box.
Move tabs
Add a new tab location
Edit the size or attributes of a specific tab location
Delete a single tab location, or delete all tab locations
Figure 6-4: Edit tabs ribbon bar
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Circle Toolpaths
Circle toolpaths efficiently mill a circle when you select just a single
point, or other circle toolpaths for related applications. After milling
the center of the circle, Mastercam calculates an entry arc before
approaching the perimeter and then a similar exit arc. You can add
enhancements such as multiple passes, multiple depth cuts, and
helical plunge moves, and fine-tune the entry and exit arcs.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Mill and Router Toolpaths • 395
Note: There is no specific tool type for Felix tools. When creating a
tool definition for a Felix tool, create it as a flat endmill.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Mill and Router Toolpaths • 397
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398 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
In this example, a slot mill was used to cut the coarse threads around
the top of a valve core:
Drill Toolpaths
Mastercam supports many types of standard drill cycles. Standard drill
toolpaths provide flexible options for selecting drilling points, such as
6
selecting either points or arcs; automatically selecting all the points
from a previous operation; or choosing drilling patterns such as grids
or bolt holes without first creating geometry. The general process of
creating a standard drill toolpath is straightforward.
62
Note: You can also customize drilling operations and create
entirely new drilling cycles. For more information, see
“Customizing Drilling Operations” on page 405.
63
To begin creating a drill toolpath, choose Toolpaths, Drill toolpath.
Then use the Drill Point Selection dialog box to select one or more
hole locations for the toolpath and choose the sort order. 64
After selecting a tool, use the drill type parameters tab (such as Simple
drill - no peck in the sample below) to choose a drill cycle from the
Cycle drop-down list, and set drill cycle parameters. Edit the fields and
settings in other drill toolpath tabs, as necessary. 65
Figure 6-5: Example: Drill Cycle Parameters tab
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Notes:
• Drill cycle availability is determined by the control definition
and is machine- and control-dependent. For more information
on using a control definition with a specific machine definition,
see “Choosing a Machine and Control Definition” on page 697.
• The post must support the selected cycle.
TIP: Multiaxis drill toolpaths (which let you rotate the drill axis
and change it from hole to hole) are an optional feature. For
more information, contact your Mastercam Reseller.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Mill and Router Toolpaths • 401
The picture on each sort pattern button gives you an idea of how the
points will be sorted relative to the starting point, which is indicated
on the button by the red cross. Hold your cursor over each button to
see the name of the sort pattern.
Notes:
• Only the drill points in the current toolpath are sorted, not all
drill points in the graphics window.
• The start point of the drill toolpath is marked with a red point.
Feature-based Drilling
Use the feature-based drilling functions described below to
automatically create a complete series of drill operations for a set of
6
points or arcs.
Automatic Drill Toolpaths (page 407)
Solid Drill Toolpaths (page 408)
62
Start Hole Toolpaths (page 408)
Feature-based drilling toolpath functions automate the process of
searching for drill points, selecting the appropriate tools from the tool
library, and creating complete sequences of drilling operations.
63
Automatic Drill Toolpaths
Use this toolpath type to automatically create a complete series of drill
operations for a set of points or arcs. For example, after selecting a set
of holes, you can automatically create a sequence of spot drilling, pre-
64
drilling, tapping, and chamfering operations. Mastercam
automatically picks the appropriate tools from the tool library for you,
based on the tool type you select.
To begin creating automatic drill toolpaths, choose Toolpaths, Circle
65
paths, Auto drill toolpath.
Use the Drill Point Selection dialog box to select one or more hole
locations for the toolpaths. After selecting points, the Drill Point
Manager dialog box displays all of the holes that will be drilled or
66
machined, in the current drill order. Use this dialog box to edit the set
of points, as necessary.
Note: You cannot use the Drill Point Manager to edit the “points” of
6
Solids drilling operations.
Then use the tabs in the Automatic Arc Drilling dialog box to set
parameters for the drill operations that will be automatically created.
68
The drill cycles used in each operation created for automatic drill
toolpaths are determined by the cycle stored with each tool definition.
Only cycles that have been enabled in the Machine Cycles section for
the active control definition can be used.
69
Note: If you select a flat endmill as the finish tool type, a drill/
counterbore drill cycle is used for the finish drill cycle.
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Then use the Drill Start Holes dialog box to select all of the operations
that need drill start hole toolpaths. Mastercam automatically
determines where plunge holes are required for the selected
operations, and will calculate the dimensions of the start holes based
6
on the sizes of the tools used in those operations.
To create just a simple drill operation, choose Basic.
To include pre-drill or spot drill cycles or use other advanced 62
drilling features, choose Advanced.
Note: To add space to the start holes so that they are a little bigger
than the tool, use the Additional diameter amount and
Additional depth amount fields.
63
Finally, select the tool library in which Mastercam will look for the
drills it needs to match the sizes of the start holes. If an exact match is
not available in the selected library, a drill whose diameter is within
64
the specified Diameter match tolerance of the hole will be used.
options include feed rate and spindle speed overrides, thin wall
finishing, spring passes, and remachining.
To begin creating a rough or finish pocket toolpath, choose Toolpaths,
Pocket Toolpath. Then chain the geometry for the pockets. All
geometry used to define a pocket and any islands must be in the same
construction plane. Mastercam automatically interprets closed
boundaries within the chained geometry as islands and adjusts the
toolpath accordingly.
Notes:
• You cannot select a 3D chain for a pocket toolpath type.
• To machine a pocket with complicated geometry, consider using
a surface pocket toolpath.
After selecting a tool, use the Pocketing parameters tab to select the
pocket type, based on the chained geometry, and set the pocket depth
and other general cutting parameters. Pocket types can include:
Facing or island facing: Mastercam automatically adjusts cut
depths for islands.
Open pockets: Mastercam automatically enters and exits the
pocket through the opening.
Remachining: Mastercam calculates the stock remaining from
a previous operation that used a larger diameter roughing
tool, and machines only the leftover stock.
In the Roughing/Finishing parameters tab, select a cutting method
and set other options for the roughing passes. Mastercam offers
different cutting patterns so you can choose the one best suited to
your part geometry and application requirements. You also use this
tab to create a finish pass with separate lead in/out moves distinct
from the entry moves for the roughing passes. You can override the
feed rate and spindle speed and set special options for thin wall
pockets. The finish pass can be created as a separate operation, so that
you can further edit and refine it separately from the roughing
operation.
Wireframe Toolpaths
Use wireframe toolpaths to use surface machining styles without
having to create or select surface entities. Mastercam calculates the
surfaces from your wireframe geometry. In this section, you will learn
TOOLPATH TYPES / Mill and Router Toolpaths • 411
about the different types of wireframe toolpaths you can create from
the Toolpaths, Wireframe submenu, including:
Lofted
Toolpaths(page 412)
Swept 2D
Toolpaths(page 414) 62
Revolved Swept 3D
Toolpaths(page 412) Toolpaths(page 414)
66
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To begin creating a ruled toolpath, choose Toolpaths, Wireframe,
Wireframe Ruled toolpath and use the Chaining dialog box to select
between 2 and 100 chains. 68
After selecting chains and a tool, use the Ruled Parameters tab to
enter the toolpath parameters. First, select a cutting method to define
the pattern that the tool will follow over the part surface. Then enter
other toolpath dimensions and compensation options. 69
Finally, select the trimming options. You can define up to two
trimming planes for the toolpath. Each trimming plane consists of a
value along one of the coordinate axes. If the toolpath would extend
past the trim plane, it is clipped; if the trim plane is outside the
toolpath, the toolpath will be extended to it.
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Lofted Toolpaths
Use lofted toolpaths when you want to create a smooth, curved blend
between chains of curves or cross-sections, simulating a lofted surface
over several chains of geometry.
TIP: When you are chaining the geometry for ruled or lofted
toolpaths, select the chains in order and make sure that the
chaining direction is consistent for all the chains so that the
toolpath does not “twist.”
Revolved Toolpaths
Use the Toolpaths, Wireframe, Wireframe Revolved toolpath
function to create a surface of revolution from a cross-section. This
toolpath type is calculated in the current construction plane, then
transformed into the current tool plane. You can trim the toolpath to a
given height or width (relative to the construction plane) and generate
a convex or concave shape. You must select a ball endmill for this
TOOLPATH TYPES / Mill and Router Toolpaths • 413
toolpath type. The following picture shows a part profile lying flat in
the XY plane, and the revolved toolpath created from the geometry.
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Coons Patch Toolpaths
Coons path toolpaths simulate patches between chains of across and
along contours by using points, lines, arcs, or splines to construct four-
65
sided patches. These patches may be machined separately or
machined with additional patches.
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To begin creating a coons patch toolpath, choose Toolpaths,
Wireframe, Wireframe Coons toolpath and enter the number of
patches to create in both the along and across directions. You can
select up to 50 patches in each direction.
69
After chaining the across and along contours and selecting a tool, use
options in the Toolpath parameters and Coons parameters tabs to
define the tool, and set the cutting direction, cutting method, and
other toolpath parameters and compensation options.
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Swept 2D Toolpaths
Use the Toolpaths, Wireframe, Wireframe Swept 2D toolpath
function to create 2½D toolpaths by sweeping one boundary (the
across contour) along a second contour (the along contour). A swept
2D toolpath can have only one along boundary. The across and along
boundaries are blended to generate a 2½D toolpath.
Swept 3D Toolpaths
You can simulate a surface with any of the following sets of boundaries
using the Toolpaths, Wireframe, Wireframe Swept 3D toolpath
function:
One across boundary and one along boundary. Unlike 2D
swept toolpaths, the geometry does not have to be confined to
a plane.
One across boundary and two along boundaries.
Two across boundaries and one along boundary.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Mill and Router Toolpaths • 415
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Specialized Toolpaths
In this section, you will learn about the types of specialized toolpaths
you can create, including
Face Toolpaths (page 416)
Point Toolpaths (page 416)
2D High Speed Peel Mill Toolpaths (page 417)
Saw Toolpaths (page 419)
Manual Entry Operations (page 421)
Face Toolpaths
Use a facing toolpath to quickly clean the stock from the top of a part,
qualify the top of the part, and create a flat surface for future
operations. You can base the toolpath on either chained geometry or
on the current stock model. Mastercam provides additional options
for zigzag and one way cutting methods to minimize burring or
chipping on the final pass along the opposing edge of the face.
To begin creating a face toolpath, choose Toolpaths, Face toolpath.
Select the across and along contours in the graphics window. Then use
the Chaining dialog box to select the part geometry, or simply choose
OK without selecting anything to use the stock model.
After selecting a tool, use the Facing parameters tab to enter the
toolpath parameters and complete the toolpath.
TIPS:
• When facing the stock, it is important to have the tool overlap
the edges of the part by at least 50% of its diameter to
prevent leaving scallops of material at the edges of the stock.
• To face islands, consider using a pocket toolpath, which
includes an automatic island facing feature.
Point Toolpaths
Positioning the tool at a specific point or making it follow a series of
specific points is a helpful technique you can use to avoid a fixture or
clamp, or to get the tool into or out of a tight area or an awkward
shape. You might also use this type of toolpath to position the tool
between cutting operations.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Mill and Router Toolpaths • 417
e
pid od
Ra e m
e
rat
M ve
up
g
mo
ed
an
ov
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ck
Ch
Re
Fe
Ad
Ba
When you begin creating the toolpath, you are prompted to select the
first point to which the tool will rapid from the home position. To add
additional points, click the locations in the graphics window. Use the
G0 (rapid) or G1 (feed rate) buttons to define the type of move before
64
selecting points, or to edit them afterwards.
For rapid moves to the point, the control definition determines
whether the rapid move is broken up into separate moves for each axis
or interpolated in multiple axes.
65
For feed rate moves, the tool moves to the new points at the
feed rate you set.
Use the Back up button to delete points and back up to the previous
point. Click OK when you finish selecting the points.
66
Use the Tool parameters tab to select a tool, coolant, and set other
toolpath options. To achieve the desired tool motion, try disabling the
reference points feature (deselect the Ref points check box). 6
2D High Speed Peel Mill Toolpaths
Mastercam's 2D high speed peel mill toolpath allows for efficient
constant climb milling between two selected contours or along a
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single contour. It uses a trochoidal style of motion with accelerated
“back” feed moves when the tool is not engaged in material. For single
chains, you define the width of the cut. Otherwise, the width is defined
by the area between the two contours. 69
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When cutting hardened material, use the peel mill toolpath to make
many fast, shallow cuts, rather than using a straight toolpath to make
fewer slow, deep cuts. This technique avoids burying the tool, easing
the cutter into and out of the material.
Saw Toolpaths
Use a saw toolpath to drive a saw blade cutting along a straight line.
With Mastercam's saw toolpath—available only with Mastercam
6
Router—you can program multiple saw cuts using a single tool plane
(for example, TOP) in a single operation.
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Note: Typically, the axis of rotation of the saw blade is parallel to
the sheet. Use the Machine Definition Manager to define a right
angle aggregate for the machine definitions used with this
6
toolpath.
When selecting chains for a saw toolpath, you indicate a kerf direction
(cut side) for each selected chain. Mastercam allows for kerf direction
68
differences on a per-chain basis within the same operation and stores
this data with each chain so you can modify it as needed.
You also control the arbor side based on the selected cutting direction
(Climb or Conventional).
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63
5 mm arcs spaced
32 mm apart
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Note: Use the Machine Definition Manager to create definitions for
drill blocks or aggregate heads. For more information, see
66
“Machine and Control Definitions” on page 811.
Drill blocks contain multiple drills and are required to create Block
Drill toolpaths in Mastercam Router. The Block Drill toolpath is
specially designed to use multiple tools for drilling in a single
6
operation. Drill blocks cannot be used for any toolpath other than
Block Drill.
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Lead drill
Offset from
lead drill to Offset from
second drill lead drill to
third drill
Both head and tool position offsets
are relative to the lead drill
In the following section, you will learn to use the block drilling
toolpath in Mastercam Router to filter drilling points by depth, and to
drill blind holes using a drill block that includes brad point drills. If the
drill block contains different tool types of the same diameter as the
arcs to drill, Mastercam gives preference to brad point drills when
drilling blind holes.
“Filtering drilling points by depth” on page 425 shows how
Mastercam can filter out arcs in the same location but at
different depths. This technique eliminates the need to delete
extra geometry or use masking to remove it from cabinet parts
imported from other CAD programs.
“Drilling blind holes with the block drilling toolpath” on
page 426 shows a technique for drilling blind holes by adding
brad point drill bits to a drill block, and defining stock.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Additional Router Toolpaths • 425
2 Enter a name for the NC file and click OK. The Drill point
selection dialog box opens.
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3 Choose Sorting.
4 In the 2D Sort tab of the Sorting dialog box, choose an option
under Depth filtering: 69
Use entity at lowest Z depth keeps the drill points at the
lowest Z depth and filters out any drill points at other
depths.
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64
65
Once you have opened the router machine definition, follow
these general steps to add one or more brad point drills to the
drill block. 66
X Adding a brad point drill to an existing drill block
1 Select the drill block, and then right-click and choose
Properties.
2 Right–click and choose Add from the menu
6
3 In the Tool Type tab, select BradPt Drill.
4 For the tool diameter, enter the size of the holes that you will
be drilling.
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5 Choose OK.
2 Use the Drill Point Selection dialog box to select the holes.
Mastercam automatically places you in window selection
mode. Since you must select arcs instead of points, some of
the other selection tools are unavailable.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Additional Router Toolpaths • 429
7 When the Block drill dialog box appears, right-click in the tool
66
selection window and choose Get block drill.
8 In the Drill Block Selection dialog box, select the drill block
that is equipped with the brad point drills. Expand the drill
block and use the right–click menu to edit view the tools in the
6
block.
9 Enter the other drilling parameters and choose OK to create
the toolpath. 68
10 Backplot the toolpath to view the blind holes.
Z
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Y
X
Aggregate position offset
shown in side view
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Surface Toolpaths
In this section, you will learn about Mastercam’s standard surface
toolpaths and surface high speed toolpaths.
Standard rough and finishing toolpaths include parallel,
radial, project, flowline, and contour. Additional roughing
toolpaths are available for restmill, pocket, and plunge
strategies. Standard surface finish toolpaths also include
steep, shallow, pencil, leftover, scallop, and blend. Each
standard toolpath type is described in more detail below.
Surface high speed toolpaths produce the smoothest, most
efficient tool motions when machining surface models (or
solid faces). For more information, see “Surface High Speed
Toolpaths” on page 444.
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Surface Rough and Finish Radial Toolpaths 6
To create surface radial toolpaths, choose the appropriate type (rough
or finish) from the Toolpath, Surface Rough or Surface Finish
submenu. You use radial toolpaths to cut from a center point outward,
creating cuts like the spokes of a wheel.
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axis instead of stepping over in the X and Y axes. Choose this toolpath
type from the Toolpath, Surface Rough or Surface Finish submenu.
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Surface Rough Restmill Toolpaths
65
Restmilling is a roughing toolpath that cleans up remaining stock with
a planar (constant Z) cut motion. To create this toolpath type, choose
Toolpath, Surface Rough, Rough restmill toolpath. The graphic
below shows the stock remaining after a pocket rough toolpath: 66
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To create this toolpath type, choose Toolpath, Surface Rough, Rough
Plunge toolpath. You can select one of the following methods to
define rough plunge toolpaths:
65
The zigzag method defines a rectangular grid and the tool
plunges at intervals along it.
The NCI method lets the tool plunge at intervals by following 66
a previously created toolpath.
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To create this toolpath type, choose Toolpath, Surface Finish, Finish
Leftover toolpath.
Note: In the part above, the blend curves are the arcs on either side
of the solid.
These two pictures show the effect of the corner smoothing function. In the top picture, you can see
that as the tool moves into the narrow spines, many sharp corners are created. The bottom picture
shows the same region with corner smoothing turned on. In this case, the Max rounding value was
20% of the stepover.
Original
65
toolpath
Max rounding 66
Not every eligible corner will be smoothed by the Max rounding
distance. If the arc created by Max rounding would gouge the part,
Mastercam will attempt to insert a smaller arc. If, after several such
6
attempts, Mastercam does not find a suitable curve, it will leave the
sharp corner unchanged. Also, if there are several sharp corners close
together, Mastercam will reduce the size of the inserted arcs so that the
smoothed segments do not interfere with each other. 68
Because this is a 3D toolpath, the smoothing curve can be either an arc
or 3D spline. If the curve does not lie in the XY, YZ, or XZ plane,
Mastercam will linearize it to ensure that the part is not gouged.
69
Note: The corner smoothing is calculated after Mastercam
calculates the 3D collapse tool motions, but before toolpath
filtering. Since the smoothing curve is linearized, a coarse filter
setting might undo some of the corner smoothing. 610
444 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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You can find this setting in the Toolpaths page of the System
Configuration dialog box.
Core roughing toolpaths are ideal for boss-type parts. On each Z level,
the tool approaches the part from the outside with multiple offset
Mastercam will cut the cavities inside to out (like an area clearance
cutting pass), and machine the bosses from the outside like in the
preceding picture. Use the Minimize burial option on the Trochoidal
motion page to have Mastercam automatically insert trochoidal loops
6
in your toolpath in areas where the tool might be fully buried for
example, in the valley between two bosses.
The top set of profiles is not typically included in the toolpath, since
Mastercam assumes that these lie on the very top of the block. To
62
machine these profiles, set the Minimum depth on the Steep/Shallow
page to a Z height above the top of your part (see page 502).
Area clearance toolpaths are an excellent choice for any parts that need to be machined from the
inside out, like pockets, cavities, and molds. Mastercam creates offset surface profiles at each Z level
and machines them starting with the innermost one. You can create a helical entry or create a ramp
entry parallel to the cut profile.
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Although the entire part was selected for the drive surfaces, Mastercam
limits the cutting passes to only those areas that couldn’t be cut by the
roughing tool. In each area of leftover stock, Mastercam calculates
multiple Z-cuts at a cut depth you specify.
This picture shows the same toolpath using a larger tool—in this case, a
0.375-inch bullnose endmill instead of the 0.250-inch ball cutter used in
the previous picture. Although it still cleans out the saddle and the
boundary around the boss, it stays out of the smaller corners.
Mastercam gives you several options for calculating the stock model:
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 453
Surfaces to be machined
Figure 6-15: Calculating the reference tool size for pencil toolpaths
6
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finish tool radius
stepover 63
# of offsets 64
Reference tool radius Reference tool radius
The picture at left shows how the reference tool size is calculated. (In the dialog box, enter twice
the radius to get the Reference tool diameter.) The picture on the right shows how the
65
theoretical roughing tool defines the machining zone for the finish toolpath. The calculated
Reference tool diameter should be smaller than your actual roughing tool to ensure that the
pencil toolpath finishes all the area left by the roughing tool.
Raster toolpaths
Raster toolpaths are comprised of a set of parallel passes with a
stepover along a line at a set angle. This machining strategy is most
effective on shallow (nearing horizontal) surfaces, or steeper surfaces
that are perpendicular to the angle of the passes.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 459
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Raster toolpaths create parallel cutting passes across the surface. You can
adjust the angle at which the passes are oriented to accommodate
65
different part features.
In the above example, the passes are parallel to the X axis. In the detail
on the right, you can see that the passes are evenly spaced. In the
66
detail on the left, where the surface is at an angle to the cutting pass,
you can see the consistency of the spacing starts to degrade. In these
areas, you can adjust the Machining angle for better results.
Select a Cutting method on the Cut parameters page to
6
organize and orient the cuts. You can choose to create one-
way cuts in either direction; zigzag cuts in both directions; or
up/down mill.
Then, enter values for the Stepover and Machining angle.
68
Unlike scallop toolpaths, the Stepover is a 2D value measured
parallel to the tool plane. Enter a Machining angle that fits
your part geometry.
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The picture on the left shows a toolpath created with a machining angle of
0 degrees. The picture on the right shows the same toolpath recreated
with a machining angle of 25 degrees. You can see that the cutting passes
are better aligned with the geometry.
Waterline toolpaths
Waterline toolpaths are created from a set of profile curves along the
cut surfaces. The profiles are separated by a constant Z amount. They
are similar to finish contour toolpaths, but use Mastercam’s high speed
toolpath techniques for a smoother, more efficient tool motion. They
are typically used for finishing and semi-finishing operations.
Waterline toolpaths are best suited for surfaces whose angles are
between 30 and 90 degrees. This is because the distance between
passes is measured along the tool axis. Where the surfaces are
shallower, material typically won't be removed as efficiently. However,
you can configure the toolpath to generate extra cuts in shallow or flat
areas.
You can see from the following picture that the passes are nicely
spaced on vertical surfaces, but there are two problem areas where the
surface gets shallower. One is at the neck of the bottle. Here, the
toolpath overlaps on two sides to create a herringbone effect. The
other is where the surface nears a horizontal aspect at the bottom and
the passes are too far apart. Both problems could be avoided, or at
least minimized, by limiting the waterline passes to contact angles
between 30 and 90 degrees and using another, more suitable, strategy
to machine the shallower areas. The Steep/Shallow page in the
Surface High Speed Toolpaths dialog box lets you control this.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 461
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Waterline passes produce best results on steep areas, like the wall of this
64
mold, but are less-well suited for flat areas. Use the Steep/Shallow page
to control the cutting area by surface angle.
65
Use the Cutting method options on the Cut parameters page to
orient the cutting passes. You can select either Climb milling,
Conventional milling, or Zigzag. With Zigzag, each pass is machined
in the opposite direction to the previous pass. A short linking motion
connects the two ends.
66
Radial toolpaths
Use radial toolpaths to create cutting passes that radiate outwards
from a central point. This machining strategy is most effective on areas
6
with shallow curved surfaces and circular areas. Since the stepover
between each pass is a 2D value calculated in the XY plane only, the
cuts might not be appropriate for steep areas. This is especially true
when the steep contour is perpendicular to the cutting direction. In
such areas a waterline or spiral toolpath might produce better results.
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To define the machining zone, you need to enter the radius of the
circle to be machined, and the coordinates of its center point.
Mastercam will project this circle onto your selected drive surfaces
and calculate the toolpath within this area.
Using start and end angles—You can also limit the machining zone by
specifying a starting and ending angle. The start and end angle are
positive values measured from the X-positive axis. The following
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 463
Start angle = 0
6
End angle = 90
62
Start angle = 80
End angle = 200
63
Start angle = 0
End angle = 360
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In these cases, you can restrict the tool motion by specifying an inner
radius. Mastercam will not calculate cutting passes for the area of the
circle inside this radius.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 465
Spiral toolpaths
Use a spiral toolpath to create cutting passes where the tool feeds into
the part in a continuous spiral instead of several discrete passes at a
6
constant Z height. The spacing between each pass is a 2D distance
measured in the XY plane, so this toolpath type works best on shallow
parts whose features can be effectively machined with a circular
motion. The following picture shows an example of a spiral toolpath. 62
Figure 6-22: Spiral toolpath
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To define the machining zone, you need to enter the outer radius of
the spiral, and the coordinates of its center point. Mastercam will
project this circle onto your selected drive surfaces and calculate the
6
toolpath within this area. This is different from, say, a waterline
toolpath, in which each cutting pass represents the actual profile of
the drive surface at a particular Z depth. If the center point and radius
of the spiral do not match your drive surfaces, Mastercam will simply
cut that portion of each spiral pass that lies on the drive surface, as
68
shown in the following picture.
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Also, check surfaces are supported for only waterline, raster, spiral,
and radial toolpaths.
Figure 6-24: Using the Surface High Speed Toolpaths dialog box
Toolpath
62
settings are
organized in
pages. Pages
with a green
check mark 9
63
have settings
that have Edit or reselect toolpath geometry.
been edited.
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Quick View settings summarize key operation
data no matter which page is displayed.
The Surface High Speed Toolpaths dialog box organizes all of your toolpath settings in one place.
When you select or change the toolpath type, Mastercam changes the list of pages so that it displays
6
only the relevant settings.
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3 Use the Toolpath Type page to edit the set of drive surfaces or
tool containment boundary. For example, you might limit a
finish pass to only certain surfaces or areas of the part.
4 Select the desired type of toolpath or finish operation.
Mastercam updates the list of pages so that it shows only the
settings relevant to the selected toolpath type.
5 Use the Tool page to select the finishing tool. Mastercam
updates the cutting and linking parameters for the new tool.
6 Edit or update other operation parameters, as necessary.
6
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Click on a tool in the large window to use it for an operation. Click Select library tool to get a new
tool from the tool library. The green check mark next to a tool name means that it is used in an
operation in the current machine group, but not necessarily the current operation.
Use the right-click menu in the large window to see many more options for managing feeds, speeds,
6
and tools.
TIP: You can select a tool from the library just by entering its
tool number if you have the Search tool library option set in
your Machine group properties.
variable, with the value of 70000. This value will be used only to
indicate a tool inspection stop. Mastercam will write this value to the
NCI file on the final move to the clearance plane. 6
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Stepdown (constant Z)
62
Min stepdown
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Max profile stepover
Use the Add cuts feature to add additional cuts in shallow areas of the part. Use Max profile stepover
to limit the horizontal spacing as the surface gets flatter. Use the Min stepdown value to ensure that
65
too many passes do not get created with very small differences in Z depth.
the right shows the additional passes created by Add cuts. Use the Min
stepdown and Max profile stepover values to configure the added
cuts. Mastercam will add enough new cuts to maintain the maximum
profile stepover, while spacing them each by at least as much as the
minimum stepdown.
The Add cuts option will also result in cuts being added to island faces
and similar flats, but the additional cuts are not guaranteed to be at the
exact level of the island. The amount of stock remaining on the island
face could be as much as the minimum step down amount.
6
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Consider the part shown above, a simple
hemisphere.
• A typical roughing operation would leave
the stock shown in the top-right picture.
64
Large cusps would be left at the top of the
part and smaller cusps towards the bottom.
• A rest roughing operation would machine
each of the cusps as shown in the middle
picture. (A flat tool was used to make the
65
cusps easier to see.)
• Selecting the option to Adjust remaining
stock to ignore small cusps produces
the results shown in the bottom picture.
66
Mastercam ignores the small cusps on the
bottom of the part and machines only the
larger cusps between the red lines. This
technique is ideal for a semi-finishing
operation.
6
The other stock adjustment option (Adjust
remaining stock to mill small cusps) would
not have any noticeable effect on this part, since
the rest material boundary already covers the
entire part and all parts of the model can be
68
easily reached by any tool.
69
Choose Adjust remaining stock to ignore small cusps to simulate the
effect of a stock model created from a larger tool. Because the tool is
610
larger, Mastercam thinks that there is less stock remaining than there
480 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
actually is, and so the rest roughing operation is created only in areas
where the tool encounters a relatively large amount of stock. This
decreases the area that is machined.
Choose Adjust remaining stock to mill small cusps to simulate the
effect of a stock model created from a smaller tool. This is a more
specialized strategy than the previous type of stock adjustment. In this
case, because the tool is smaller, Mastercam thinks that there is more
stock remaining than there actually is, and Mastercam creates cuts in
areas that have already been machined. Even though this typically
results in increased air cutting, it can be a useful strategy for certain
applications:
If you are rest roughing a small area, you can use this strategy
to create more room for an entry or exit move.
If the rest material boundary is very irregular, this strategy
might result in a smoother boundary.
Stock adjustment options are not available when you are using a CAD
file as the stock model.
The outer, larger circular arrow indicates the tool direction for
machining the outer boundaries.
In this example, most machining occurs in a counterclockwise 6
direction, as the tool works outwards from the innermost profile to the
outside boundary. It then machines around the outer offset of the
inner boundary, working inwards, in a clockwise direction.
The example below shows a typical pencil toolpath. Usually, the inner 62
pass will be a single (open) pass, and the outer passes will form loops.
63
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Other way—This option organizes the cutting passes in the same basic
manner as One way, but simply reverses the direction, to maintain a
65
conventional milling orientation.
Zigzag—Each pass is machined in the opposite direction to the
previous pass. A short linking motion connects the two ends. 66
6
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Down mill, Up mill—Select this option to break each pass into
segments such that each piece is machined in a downward or upward
direction. This is especially useful when you are using insert cutters
69
that are restricted to a specific cutting direction. Flat sections can be
machined in either direction; the Cut parameters page lets you
specify a threshold angle to define which areas are considered flat. You
can also specify an overlap distance to ensure that no cusps or 610
482 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
unwanted scallops are left in the transition area where several passes
begin in different directions.
Overlap
This picture shows how the overlap distance would be applied to down
milling cutting passes. After down milling Cutting pass 1, the tool
retracts to the start point for Cutting pass 2. When Mastercam
calculates the start point for the second pass, it overlaps the first pass by
the overlap distance.
With the One Way cutting method, cuts from the inside to out are
counter-clockwise. This will mimic climb cutting in most (but not all)
cases. With Other Way, the cuts are reversed to mimic conventional
milling—again, in most, but not all cases.
Overthickness
Overthickness applies only to pencil toolpaths. Typically, Mastercam
will create a pencil pass only where the radius of the filleted material
between two surfaces is less than, or equal to, the radius of the tool.
Use the Overthickness parameter to make the tool seem bigger than it
really is and “force” a cutting pass where Mastercam otherwise would
not create one.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 483
Overthickness is often used when the tool is the same radius (or
nearly the same) as the fillets between the surfaces. In these cases, you
can get a certain amount of chatter in the toolpath, because at any
given point the tool might be seen as slightly larger or smaller than the
6
fillet, depending on the cut tolerance. Using an overthickness value in
these situations can eliminate this effect and result in a smooth
toolpath along the entire region. For this type of application, we
suggest an overthickness value of 10 times the cut tolerance.
62
The pictures below show how overthickness is applied to your
toolpath. Note that it does not result in either gouging or extra material
being left on the part.
Figure 6-28: Applying overthickness
63
The corner radius of the
original tool is smaller
than the surface fillet, so 64
without overthickness, no
cutting pass would be
created here.
65
An overthickness amount
66
is applied to the tool,
increasing its corner radius
to larger than the surface
fillet. 6
Mastercam calculates the
points where the larger
tool would contact the
surface.
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Smoothing toolpaths
Use the Smoothing option to have Mastercam round the corners of
the toolpath. This lets the machine tool maintain a higher feed rate
and reduces wear on the cutter. This feature is often used when
roughing. It lets you remove large amounts of material quickly, without
worrying about the exact rendering of edges.
Figure 6-29: Toolpath smoothing.
Profile/offset tolerance
Max radius
You can choose to limit the tool to the outside of the boundary, or
inside it. The following pictures show how the different containment
options restrict the toolpath.
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Offset distance
Generally, if each profile is offset by no more than the tool radius, then
the whole area will be cleared. In certain cases where the profile is very
smooth, it is possible to offset the profiles by as much as the tool
diameter and still clear the area. Obviously, spacing the profiles by
more than the tool diameter will leave many upstands between the
passes, looking somewhat like a maze. Between these two extremes—
the radius and the diameter—there is an ideal stepover where the area
will be cleared leaving no upstands. Mastercam uses an advanced
algorithm to find this ideal value.
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Actual tool
Calculated Leftover
toolpath stock
For toolpath types that support check surfaces, the stock left on the
check surface will be the larger of the Stock to leave amount for the
walls or floors.
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Loops minimize tool burial in area
between bosses.
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6
With Minimize tool burial turned off,
the tool moves straight through the area
with greater than expected tool burial
68
For example, in the part shown at right, you can see the loops that
Mastercam inserts as the tool approaches the area between the two
bosses. As the tool is forced to engage more material because of the
part geometry, Mastercam calculates smaller loops. Hold your mouse
over the picture to see the same toolpath with Minimize tool burial
69
turned off. You can see that the tool will be fully buried as it passes
between the bosses.
Note: Inserting the loops typically results in increased machining time.
If you are confident that a fully buried tool does not pose a problem for
610
your application, you can de-select the Minimize burial option. For
492 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Stepover adjustment
engagement
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If Mastercam does not have enough room to create loops at
64
the initial size, it will create successively smaller loops. The
Retry loop radius specifies how large each new loop will be as
a percentage of the previous loop.
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Retry loop radius 6
For example, if your Initial loop radius is 16mm, and the
Retry loop radius is 50, Mastercam will create an 8mm loop if
the 16mm loop is too large. If the 8mm loop is too large, it will
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then create a 4mm loop.
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Feedrate adjustment
Plunge angle
Minimum profile
Depth of next
programmed cut
Radius
If your control does not support helical arcs, deselect the Output arc
moves option. Mastercam will instead approximate the helix with
many small linear moves.
page is that the linking moves connect multiple cuts on the same Z
level, while these moves control the transition to a new set of cuts on a
different Z level. This section applies to all finish toolpath types except
raster and horizontal area toolpaths.
6
Select Tangential ramp to create a true high speed transition
between the cutting passes. Mastercam inserts arcs at the
beginning and end of the ramp for the smoothest tool motion
into and out of the move.
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Use these controls to solve the problem where Mastercam thinks that a
pocket is large enough to accommodate the tool, but the entry move is
so compressed that the tool is effectively plunging into the part.
Use the Skip pockets smaller than field to specify the
smallest pocket that you want Mastercam to consider cutting.
Pockets smaller than this value will be skipped over. A typical
value is 110% of the tool diameter.
Use the Preferred profile length to also define the smallest
allowable pocket, but as a function of the length of the entry
ramp. The Preferred profile length replaces the Minimum
profile parameter from earlier versions of Mastercam.
Mastercam will try to maintain this preference, but this is not
guaranteed. In this case, the Skip pockets smaller than field
serves as a backup by letting you specify an absolute
minimum size that Mastercam will not violate.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 499
useful for zigzag cutting methods or down/up milling when the end of
one pass is very close to the beginning of the next one.
Max angle
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Note: Surface angle limits are not available for roughing toolpaths
or horizontal area toolpaths. 610
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Cutting passes
Minimum
Z depth
Maximum
Z depth
You can use a maximum Z depth to prevent the tool from falling
indefinitely if it moves off the edges of the surface. In the example
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 503
below, with a maximum Z depth applied, when the tool moves off the
surface, it continues at the maximum Z depth and falls no further.
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You can set your minimum Z depth higher than the highest point on
your drive surface to effectively add extra machining height. You can
also set it below the top of your surfaces; for example, when you want
to cut a deep cavity using several separate cutter paths.
64
Using contact areas to create a machining zone
Mastercam’s surface high speed toolpaths include an option to create
cutting passes only where the programmed tool position would
actually contact a surface. This is useful for toolpaths where
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Mastercam might create cutting passes along unnecessary areas such
as the outside border of a drive surface. To use this feature, select the
Contact areas only option in the Steep/Shallow page. To disable it
and create cutting passes along the entire surface and boundary, select
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Contact and inside.
The following picture shows a waterline toolpath created with the
Contact and inside option. Cutting passes have been created along
both the central boss and the outer boundary. You can see that the
6
passes along the boundary are cutting only air. (To show this more
clearly, we did not create cutting passes in the flat areas.)
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approach and retract move. These include entry/exit arcs and linear
entry/exit extensions.
Figure 6-39: Parameters for minimal vertical retract
6
rapid move to start of next pass
Linear exit
Part clearance
Linear entry
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Vertical arc entry
Vertical arc exit
63
Full vertical retract—The tool moves vertically to the clearance plane.
It then moves along this plane in a straight line, and drops down
vertically to the start of the next pass. The height of the move is set by
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the Clearance plane value.
Figure 6-40: Full vertical retract method
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Mastercam applies the Lead parameters from the Linking parameters
page to the cutting pass to calculate the base location for each
approach and retract move. These include entry/exit arcs and linear
entry/exit extensions.
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6. Curl up
rapid move to start of next pass
1. Curl down 63
5. Linear exit 2. Linear entry
Part clearance (minimum)
4. Vertical arc exit cutting pass 3. Vertical arc entry
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65
Each numbered element, as well as the Part clearance, corresponds to a
field on the Linking parameters page. The left side of the picture shows
how the tool retracts from the part to the retract plane, and the right side
shows how the tool approaches the part from the cutting plane. 66
Typically, the height of the retract move is determined by the size of the
arcs that you enter. Use the Part clearance to define the minimum
height that the tool needs to maintain over the part. Mastercam will
automatically extend the linear entry/exit moves if necessary to
6
maintain the skim distance.
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Machine entire pass—The path of the tool will match the surface,
including vertical surfaces and the corners. An arc will be inserted only
at the end of the pass, and then only if it can be done safely without
hitting the part.
Trimming distance
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 511
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Using the maximum trimming distance—Use the Max trimming
distance parameter to limit the amount of trimming applied to non-
horizontal passes. When a lead arc is added to a horizontal machining
pass, the length of pass trimmed off will be at most the radius of the 64
arc. However, when adding an arc to a steep finishing pass, the total
length of pass trimmed—that is, the trimming distance—can be much
greater, as shown in the picture below. To avoid this, the Max trimming
distance limits the trimming distance; if the amount trimmed would
exceed this value, then no arc is used. Instead, the whole pass is
65
machined, and a straight vertical motion is added.
Figure 6-43: Applying maximum trimming distance
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6
Trimmed
toolpath
68
Original
toolpath
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Amount trimmed
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512 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Home position
Reference pt – Retract
Reference pt – Approach
“Planes (WCS) page” on page 520 lets you define the planes in
which the toolpath is created.
Use the“Axis combination page” on page 520 to select an axis
combination for this operation. Axis combinations identify
which components of the machine correspond to each axis in
the current coordinate system.
Experienced Mastercam users will recognize these pages from other
Mastercam toolpaths.
Note: The fillets are created as tool motions only. They are not
saved as part of your surface model, and they have no effect on
your part geometry.
6
Filleting toolpaths
Use toolpath fillets to create a toolpath that automatically leaves fillets
at the corners between the surfaces. The fillets are created entirely by
62
the programmed tool motion, and have no effect at all on your surface
model or part geometry. For many parts, this can be much easier and
faster than actually creating the surface fillets in your part geometry.
This feature is available for all surface high speed toolpaths.
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Figure 6-45: Toolpath fillets
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These two pictures show how you can use toolpath fillets to help create the smooth, free-flowing tool
motions needed for high speed machining. The picture on the left shows the original toolpath with no
oolpath fillets. You can see the sharp corners as the tool transitions between part features. The picture
on the right shows the same part with toolpath fillets applied. When creating the fillets, make sure
6
hat the fillet radius is larger than the tool radius.
Note that the fillets are created not only along the direction of the tool
motion, but across it as well. For example, consider a toolpath that 68
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With filleting turned off, the cutting passes would look like this:
Top view
Side view
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 517
Top view
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Side view 65
Toolpath filleting can seem similar to toolpath smoothing, but there is
an important difference. Toolpath filleting looks at your part model to
66
calculate the fillets, while toolpath smoothing looks directly at the
calculated tool motion. For example, if you cut a 6mm fillet with a
12mm ball mill, the toolpath will still have a sharp corner. Toolpath
smoothing, on the other hand, would identify and apply an arc to that 6
corner.
To create the fillets, select the Toolpath fillet option on the Arc Filter/
Tolerance page and enter the desired radius of the fillets. The radius
that you enter here should be larger than the radius of the tool. 68
Canned Text page
Use this page to insert canned text commands in your NC program.
Canned text commands selected here will be inserted at the tool
change block for the operation. You can choose to insert the
69
commands either immediately before or after the tool change block, or
as part of it.
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518 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: The canned text commands that are available to you depend
on the current control definition.
Note: Depending on how the coolant settings for your control and
post are defined, you might also see coolant options included in
the list of available canned text options. If this is the case, selecting
a canned text coolant option here has the same effect as choosing it
in the Coolant page.
TIP: Use the Change at point dialog box to insert canned text
at specific points in the toolpath, other than the tool change
block.
Coolant page
Use this page to turn coolant on or off. The coolant options that are
available to you are defined in the active machine definition. For each
type of coolant, you can set a maximum of two states:
Turn the coolant on, off, or maintain the current state (as set
by a previous operation or point).
Apply the change at the current location/block, before it, or
after it.
Your machine definition might not allow all possible states. For
example, you might be limited to a simple On/Off toggle. You can also
TOOLPATH TYPES / Surface Toolpaths • 519
TIP: You can display the work offset number with the operation
in the Toolpath Manager.
Click the Help button in this page to learn more about planes, WCS, or
using work offsets.
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522 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Multiaxis Toolpaths
6
In this section, you will learn about:
Standard Multiaxis Toolpaths
Advanced Multiaxis Toolpaths (page 535)
62
Standard Multiaxis Toolpaths
Multiaxis toolpaths allow freedom of motion in the tool axis rather
63
than restricting tool motion to the Z axis as with other toolpath types.
You can create multiaxis toolpaths when working with 4-axis and 5-
axis machine tools. Based on the selected machine tool, you can
choose a 3-, 4-, or 5-axis toolpath output format, as outlined below.
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Machine Tool Toolpath Output Format
4-axis
5-axis Multisurface
Toolpaths (page 529)
64
Note: Generating multiaxis toolpaths for a machine tool usually
requires post processor customization. For more information on
customizing the post processor for a multiaxis machine tool and
control, contact your Mastercam Reseller.
65
Selecting Geometry for 5-axis Toolpaths 66
After selecting a 5-axis toolpath type from the Toolpaths, Multiaxis
menu, you use an interactive dialog box to define parameters, and
then return to the graphics window to select the geometry for the
5-axis toolpath. Although each dialog box is different, they share many
of the same parameters, as illustrated in the examples below.
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528 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
toolpath using lines and points, where the tool axis vectors are set by
the lines.
Z
Part surfaces selected as
cut surfaces (Comp to surfaces)
X
Front view
TOOLPATH TYPES / Multiaxis Toolpaths • 531
In the example below, a box cut pattern was used to generate the flow
of motion and tool axis vectors. Then the tool tip was compensated to
the part surfaces. 6
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5-axis Flowline Toolpaths
Flow 5-axis toolpaths allow precise control of the scallops left on the
part or constant distance stepovers, creating an exact, smooth finish.
The 5-axis output provides 2 degrees of freedom for the tool vectors in
66
any direction. You can use flow 5-axis toolpaths on a row of adjacent
drive surfaces or on a single surface. The example below shows a flow
5-axis toolpath using a spiral cutting method.
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Or, you can choose from a number of simplified interfaces that have
610
been customized for specific applications and machining strategies.
536 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
All hidden options are preset to values appropriate for the selected
application.
Once you are familiar with parameters in the advanced interface, you
6
will find the customized interface easy to learn. You can switch from a
customized interface to the advanced interface by clicking the Switch
to advanced interface button on the Misc tab.
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5 Use the Tool axis control tab to set the direction of the tool
axis, and the method used to tilt the tool axis, and to specify
the tool contact point on the surfaces.
6 Use Gouge check to set up gouge checking on the tool tip,
tool shaft, arbor, and holder. Up to four gouge checking
strategies can be set up for each operation. Also, you can
select different sets of check surfaces (one set per strategy)
and perform gouge checking against the drive surfaces as
well.
7 Use the Link tab to set up tool motion between cutting passes
and to set up entry and exit moves.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Multiaxis Toolpaths • 539
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542 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
parallel to each other. Use the Lead button to select the curve.
The chain direction defines the cut order or step direction.
Note: If the cuts cross over one another, you may need to change
the shape of the curve.
Choose the Single edge button to select the check surface you
64
want to make the parallel cuts from. Be sure to activate gouge-
checking to make certain that the tool will not cut into the
check surface. The selected Single edge surface becomes the
check surface used in gouge-checking.
65
To add surface margins, be sure that a ball (sphere) endmill is
selected as the tool, and select Calc based on tool center in
the Utility tab.
Cutting area—The Area section of the Surface paths tab controls the
66
following options:
Type —Controls how Mastercam handles surface edges.
Round corners —Finds and removes small radius areas and 6
inside corners in a surface model. Inside corners can cause
“fish tails” in a toolpath. Round corners can also be
considered as a fillet generator. The surface model is rounded
(filleted) in the direction of toolpath slices with a radius to
avoid small radii and inner sharp corners. The applied radius
68
is the main tool radius plus the current stock to leave value.
The fillet generation is independent of tool type and shape. In
most cases, this option is used with a ball cutter, lollipop
cutter, or a conical cutter with ball tip. If you are swarf 69
machining (side cutting), you can also use cylinder or torus
cutters with this option.
Extend/trim —Extends or trims the drive surface. A positive
value extends the surface tangentially to the geometry. A
negative value trims the surface.
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546 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: Note: Due to the projection, the calculation time for spiral
machining is higher as compared to the other cutting methods.
Cut order—In the cut order menu, you can choose between
three options:
Standard sets a default cut order. 6
From center away starts machining in the center of the
surface and progresses outwards.
From outside to center starts machining at the outside
of the surface and progress inwards. 62
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64
From center away From outside to inside
65
Start point—Lets you select an approximate start point for
the toolpath.
Surface quality—Use the Surface quality section of the Surface paths 66
tab to enter parameters that affect the surface finish.
Cut tolerance—Controls the accuracy of the toolpath. This
value is the chordal deviation of the toolpath against the
surfaces to be machined. A small cut tolerance gives you more 6
tool positions on the drive surface, is more precise to the
surface, and results in better surface quality. However, the
toolpath will take longer to calculate.
Distance—Sets the spacing between tool positions. This
option is useful for flat surfaces. Although the cut tolerance
68
also generates the spacing between tool positions, using
Distance generates more tool positions on flat surfaces.
Setting a small value results in more tool positions.
Maximum stepover—Sets the spacing between two cuts.
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Be tilted relative to cutting direction—This strategy lets you
set a Lead angle which tilts the tool into the cutting direction. 6
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550 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
The Tilt angle tilts the tool toward the side of the cutting
direction.
Side tilt definition defines the direction when tilting the tool
axis relative to the cutting direction. Side tilt definition is
used for side milling to ensure contact between the tool and
the surface.
Tilted with the angle—In this strategy, the tool axis is will be
tilted away from the surface normal direction toward the tilt
axis. The tilt axis can be the X,Y, and Z axis, or any line created
TOOLPATH TYPES / Multiaxis Toolpaths • 551
in the geometry. Imagine that the tilt axis and surface normal
define a vector plane. The tool can tilt only on this plane.
6
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63
Tilted with fixed angle to axis—In this strategy, the tool axis
is will be tilted from the tilt axis toward the surface normal.
64
The tilt axis can be the X,Y, and Z axis, or any line created in
the geometry. Imagine that tilt axis and surface normal define
a cone. The tool can tilt only on the cone.
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6
Tilted around axis—In this strategy, the tool axis has the same
direction as the surface normal, but is tilted around an axis.
This axis can be the X, Y, Z or any line created in your
geometry. In the following picture, the tool axis direction is the 68
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Run tool
This parameter defines the contact point of tool to the drive surfaces.
Mastercam keeps the tool tangent to the drive surfaces.
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6
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If the tool axis orientation is changed due to tilting options,
the tool will be tilted around the tool tip center point. In this
case, the tool and surface are no longer tangential and the tool
will gouge the surface. To avoid this condition, activate a 610
556 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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558 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: If you selected Cuts along curve as the Cut pattern in the
Surface Paths tab, you can set the cone axis to Dynamically using
leading curve to limit the tool axis along the curve and its
6
toolpath.
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without retracting the tool, while larger gaps cause the tool to retract to
the rapid plane to avoid the gap.
First entry, Last exit—First entry is the initial approach of the tool
toward the part. You can specify the distance from which the tool will
enter the part and whether or not there will be a simple move or a
macro move. Macro refers to a more complex motion that you can
configure in detail; see “Entry and Exit macros” on page 568 to learn
more.
From clearance area is the default setting. The tool moves
from the clearance area, to the rapid distance, then to the feed
distance before entering the part. Using Rapid distance or
Feed distance moves the start point closer to the part.
Last Exit defines how the tool will exit the part when the
toolpath is finished, and where the part should move to. The
default setting for Last exit is Back to Clearance area. The
tool moves from the drive surface to the feed distance, then to
the rapid distance and finally to the clearance area. If you
TOOLPATH TYPES / Multiaxis Toolpaths • 565
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Gaps along cut—If Mastercam detects gaps, you can select how the
tool should pass the gap and continue machining.
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566 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Broken feed—The tool retracts along the tool axis to the feed
distance. The tool leaves the surface at the rapid speed and
moves to the next toolpath point at the machining feed rate.
For example, if this value is set to 150% and the maximum stepover
value is 0.1mm the gap threshold is 0.15mm. Mastercam checks all
stepover moves from one toolpath slice to the next slice 0.15 mm and
determines whether the gap is smaller or larger than this value.
As an alternative, you can select As value to have Mastercam define a
small move as the amount you enter, rather than as a percentage of the
maximum stepover.
Links between passes—Select either the Multipasses or Depth Cuts
option on the Roughing tab to enable the Link between passes
options. Select the type of tool movement between passes, or use an
entry or exit macro.
Entry and Exit macros—Use the entry/exit macro parameters to
define the tool entry into or exit from the drive surface. Macros provide
additional motion to the link strategies you have selected for the
TOOLPATH TYPES / Multiaxis Toolpaths • 569
Roughing tab
Use this tab to define stock and to set up multipasses and depth cuts. 6
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64
65
66
Stock definition—All tool moves in the air that do not remove material
will be trimmed using the stock definition. You can select surfaces
from the part geometry to define the stock, or use the stock setup you
have set up in the Machine Group Properties.
6
Multipasses—Select Multipasses to set up roughing and finishing
passes. The toolpath is machined from the top down. To remove a
large amount of material, select Roughing passes and enter the
number and spacing. If the toolpath will be finishing the part, select
68
Finishing passes and enter the number and spacing of the passes. For
both Roughing and Finishing passes, the spacing is the distance
between each cut.
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Plunge—Select the Plunge option to move the tool along the tool axis
to the drive surface using a plunging motion. Step length sets the
offset between the plunged holes. Side length sets the depth of the
plunged holes. Plunge height is the depth of the plunge measured
from the tool position on the surface.
The Ramp option changes the slices into one spiral slice. The
tool starts and stops on the same position with or without the
ramp option selected.
Utility tab
64
This tab contains special functions for custom applications.
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576 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Feed rates—Select Feed rates to use the feed rate optimizer. This
optimizer uses the machining feed rate that you supplied on the
Toolpath parameters tab and modifies it based on the surface
curvature. The surface curvature is calculated at each toolpath
position where the surface contact point of the tool is known.
Calculation based on tool center—With Calc based on tool center
disabled, the tool touch points (yellow dots) and the drive surface are
on the same level.
When you select Calc based on tool center, the tool centers (red dots)
are on the same level.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Multiaxis Toolpaths • 577
Axial shift—Axial shift adds an offset to the tool along its axis. This
offset can be positive or negative.
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TIP: For engraving applications, use this parameter to set the
depth of cut. 64
Machine definition tab
Thee machine information entered into this tab is used only if you
have the machine simulation module (available separately). These 65
values are not read from Mastercam’s Machine Definition Mananger.
See your Mastercam Reseller for more information about machine
simulation.
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Lathe Toolpaths
With Mastercam Lathe, you can create many different toolpaths for
turning machines, from roughing and finishing inside and outside
diameters to C-axis (mill/turn) programming. Mastercam Lathe also
includes grooving, threading, drilling, facing, and cutoff toolpaths for
all your lathe machining needs.
When you choose a Lathe machine definition from the Machine Type
menu, the Toolpaths menu displays the lathe toolpath types you can
create. This includes a number of mill toolpaths you choose from the
Toolpaths, Mill submenu.
In this section, you will learn about the different toolpath types you
can create with Mastercam Lathe, including:
General Turning Toolpaths (page 578)
Mill / Turn Toolpaths (page 593)
Miscellaneous Operations (page 600)
Lathe Thread
6
(page 581) Toolpaths (page 588)
Tap
6
Clearance 62
Depth
Retract
Clearance
Retract
63
Depth
Absolute Incremental
When using absolute, each distance is calculated from the
64
construction origin.
When using incremental, each distance is calculated from the
drill point, or, optionally, from the stock face. 65
Manual Entry
Use this toolpath function and dialog box to create an operation which
does nothing except insert a block of text, comments, or Gcodes into
66
an NC program when you post it. You can store text directly with the
operation, or you can reference an external text file that Mastercam
will read when posting. You can either insert the literal text as Gcode
commands or have them formatted as comments. 6
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To create the operation, first tell Mastercam where to read the text
from. Choose Enter text to type the text right into the dialog box, or
choose Use text file to select an external file which contains plain
ASCII text. If you wish, you can choose one of the Edit buttons to open
the original file or a copy to review it or make changes.
If you have selected a file, you next need to tell Mastercam how you
want to include it. Choose Save in MCX file to save the text with your
part file, or choose Read only when posting if you want to be able to
edit the text without going into your Mastercam file, or if the same file
will be used many times.
Finally, choose how you want the text formatted. You can choose to
format it as comments in your program, or as code to be executed.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Lathe Toolpaths • 587
6
an e ak
Ch rat bre
de
mo
ed ith
M ve
Fe d w
ge
up
mo
Ra d
ov
ck
pi
pi
d
Re
Ad
Ra
Ba
When you begin creating the toolpath, you are prompted to select the
68
first point to which the tool will rapid from the home position. To add
additional points, click the locations in the graphics window. Use the
G0 (interpolated rapid / rapid with break), or G1 (feed rate) buttons to
define the type of move before selecting points, or to edit them
afterwards.
69
For each point in the toolpath, you can program the following types of
tool movement:
Rapid: The tool rapids to the new point in a straight line
610
(interpolated in multiple axes).
588 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Rapid break: The tool rapids to the new point, but each axis is
interpolated separately; in other words, first the Z-axis
component of the move is performed, then the X-axis move
(the actual order of the axes depends on the tool orientation
and the direction of movement).
Feed rate: The tool moves to the new points at the
programmed feed rate (G1).
Change mode: Changes the type of motion to a particular
point when editing a point toolpath. First select the button for
the desired type of motion (Rapid, Rapid break). Then choose
Change mode and click on the point to change. You can select
more than one point. Press [Enter] when you have finished
selecting points.
Use the Back up button to delete points and back up to the previous
point. Click OK when you finish selecting the points.
Use the Toolpath parameters tab to select a tool, coolant, and set
other toolpath options. To achieve the desired tool motion, try
disabling the reference points feature (deselect the Ref points check
box).
Cutoff Toolpaths
Cutoff toolpaths vertically cut off pieces of the part, such as sections of
bar stock. When you choose Toolpaths, Lathe Cutoff Toolpath, you do
not chain any geometry for the cutoff toolpath. Instead, you select the
point where the part is cut off. Then select a tool and use the Cutoff
Parameters tab to define the toolpath.
TOOLPATH TYPES / Lathe Toolpaths • 591
Notes:
• Using canned toolpath types results in a very compact NC
63
program, but you do not have access to all of Mastercam's
features for the selected toolpath type (roughing, finishing,
grooving, and pattern repeat).
• The canned toolpath dialog boxes display only those parameters 64
that are supported by your machine controller’s canned cycle
programs.
• Use the Lathe canned cycles section in the control definition to
configure which canned cycles will be available and which
toolpath features will generate canned cycle output.
65
• If canned cycle output is not enabled, Mastercam will generate
“long-hand” output; in other words, individual Gcodes for
every positioning and cutting move. 66
Mill / Turn Toolpaths
Mill / turn toolpaths use “live” tooling in which the tool rotates in its
6
own spindle. The part can be stationary in the chuck or the part
spindle can be programmed as a rotary axis (C-axis). You use tool
planes (Tplanes) to specify how the tool is oriented with respect to the
part. 68
Mill / turn machines come in two styles: C-axis and Y-axis.
The C-axis machine, which is more common, provides linear
motion in the X and Z axes and rotary motion around the C
axis.
69
Y-axis machines support the C-axis motion and have an
additional linear axis that allows the milling tool to move
above and below the spindle's center line.
In this section, you will learn how to create the following mill/turn
610
toolpath types.
594 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
C-axis Cross Drill Drills from the side towards the centerline
Toolpaths or off-center.
(page 597):
C-axis Face Drill Drills on the face of the part parallel to the
Toolpaths centerline, but not necessarily on the
(page 597): centerline.
Note: Choosing this toolpath type also sets the default cutter
compensation to Off so that the center of the tool follows the
chained geometry.
Set the rotation type to C-axis in the Rotary Axis dialog box to produce
polar-conversion output for a C-axis lathe, or select Y-axis rotation to
produce X-Y-Z coordinate output.
If the points are already in their correct 3D positions, you must choose
the Rotary Axis button in the C-axis drill dialog box and check Unroll.
Even if the points lie in different planes, you can select all the points
that you want to drill at the same time without having to specify the
6
tool plane for every hole.
Miscellaneous Operations
You use miscellaneous operations to manipulate the stock and
program the movements of peripherals like tailstocks, chucks, and
steady rests. These toolpaths might output M-codes or G-codes. You
can program miscellaneous operations only for peripherals that are
supported by the active machine definition.
6
62
63
64
Chuck Operations
Use this operation to clamp, unclamp, or reposition the chuck. This
lets you take advantage of the automatic clamping and unclamping
features on your machine. Mastercam’s collision avoidance features
prevent the tool from making a move into the chuck.
6
62
63
64
If your machine has two spindles, select the active spindle for
the operation.
Select the type of operation. You can create operations to 65
clamp, unclamp, or move the chuck.
Enter the original and final positions of the chuck, or choose
the Select button to select the locations from the graphics
window. 66
To restrict the chuck's movement to X-axis moves only, choose
the Diameter only option. This is especially useful for Swiss
machines where the chuck moves in Z instead of the tool.
Tailstock Operations
6
Use this operation to reposition the tailstock.
To access the Lathe Tailstock Properties tab and define the operation,
69
choose Toolpaths, Lathe Misc Ops, Lathe Tailstock.
610
606 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
68
69
610
608 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Nesting Toolpaths
Nesting is the process of fitting multiple copies of a part within a
boundary (material sheet) for best yield. Parts can be nested next to
each other or even within each other to provide the most efficient use
of the material. Mastercam Nesting is an add-on to other Mastercam
products, such as Mastercam Router, Mill, and Wire.
You can choose to nest geometry or toolpaths. You can bring in
geometry from a file or chain it in the graphics window. To use
toolpaths for nesting, they must already be defined in the current part
file.
Nesting provides several methods for defining sheets of material. A
sheet definition consists of the sheet geometry, length and width
dimensions, quantity of that sheet to be used in the nesting session,
position of the lower left corner (origin), and the grain direction. Each
material sheet you define can be used in the current nesting session.
You can also save the sheets to a nesting sheet library file (.NSL) for
reuse.
Both geometry parts and toolpath parts can be added as clusters. A
cluster is a collection of parts that are nested as a single unit and
maintain their spatial relationship with each other.
The parts in a nesting session or operation can lie at different Z depths.
Nesting generates the session at the current Z (construction) depth.
The Nesting add-on to Mastercam provides two modes of operation:
Rectangular and TrueShape.
Rectangular nesting places a bounding box around the part
and uses the box as the part boundary for nesting.
Rectangular nesting supports a subset of the TrueShape
TOOLPATH TYPES / Nesting Toolpaths • 609
68
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610
612 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Engraving Toolpaths
When creating Engraving toolpaths, you can define roughing,
finishing, and remachining operations. Engraving generates a
contour-like finish pass as part of the roughing operation.
Note: If you use a flat cutter to machine out a cavity and plan to
remachine the corners, you can enter an Angle for flat cutter
offset that offsets the tip of the straight (flat) bit to match the V-
groove tip position. This ensures that the roughing operation does
not gouge the engraved edge.
Note: The rough cutting methods are unavailable when you create
an engraving remachining operation. Remachining toolpaths
always use the zigzag cutting pattern.
6
6 Click OK to accept the toolpath parameters and close the
dialog box.
62
Engraving Tips and Guidelines
Engraving requires closed boundaries and a V-groove tool,
such as an engraving bit or chamfer bit.
63
Inner boundaries are islands you can emboss by selecting
Rough in the Roughing/finishing tab.
To remove material from a cavity, use an engraving roughing
toolpath and a straight (flat) bit. In the Engraving parameters
64
tab, enter an Angle for flat cutter offset that matches the tool
you selected. Set the XY stock to leave value to leave material
for the finish pass. After creating the roughing operation,
reselect the geometry and create an engraving toolpath to 65
carve the geometry with the selected tool.
When creating a roughing operation for engraving, set the
Tolerance in the Roughing/Finishing tab to a value smaller
than the XY stock to leave value (specified in the Engraving
parameters tab) but larger than the default. A looser tolerance
66
will reduce the size of the NC program. After creating the
roughing operation, reselect the geometry and create a
remachining operation to clean up areas of material left by the
roughing operation.
6
An engraving remachining toolpath uses a smaller tool to
remove material that cannot be removed by the roughing tool,
and then makes a finish pass. You can calculate the material to
be removed either from the previous operation or from the
68
dimensions of the roughing tool.
Shading Settings
Shading settings control the appearance of shaded surfaces and solids.
The Shading Settings dialog box provides this control. Choose Screen,
Shade Settings to open the Shading Settings dialog box:
Figure 7-3: Shading Settings Dialog Box
Activate or deactivate
shading; shade all entities
or only selected entities.
Define characteristics of
and turn on/off spot lights.
Entity Selection
You can shade all surfaces and solids in the current job or only selected
entities.
Colors 74
To control the shading color, choose Screen, Shade Settings, and
then:
To use the color of the entity as the shading color, choose
Entity color.
756
To select a shading color from the color palette, choose Select
color. The current shading color displays. To change it, choose
the Colors button, and then select a color from the palette.
To use a material color, choose Material, and then select a
7
material from the list. You can create or edit material color
settings using the Material dialog box.
Defining Material Colors
You can define shading colors that simulate materials. Several
78
standard material definitions are provided (brass, bronze, chrome,
copper, gold, silver, various colors of plastic and rubber). You can edit
the standard materials and create new ones.
The material color definitions consist of amounts of red, green, and
79
blue for each of three kinds of light: ambient, specular, and diffuse. You
can also define a shininess value.
Parameters
Lighting
Mastercam provides many lighting options that allow you to create
shading effects:
Ambient light is diffuse light shining onto the entity from all
directions.
Spot lights are directional lighting. Spot lights can
simulate the diffuse light from a light bulb, or a
focused cone of light from a conventional spot light.
You can light the entity using multiple spot lights.
You can control the intensity and color of both ambient and spot
lighting.
756
7
78
79
7 Choose a light type, intensity, and color.
710
Note: You can turn on more than one spot light at a time. A yellow
image in the spot light angle display indicates that the light is on.
7
622 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Surface Creation
Mastercam X offers a wide range of surface creation functions:
TIP: You can also use Create menu functions to make simple
surface rectangles, rectangular shapes, polygons, ellipses, and
primitives. For more information, see “Creating Miscellaneous
Shapes” on page 287.
Base Surface
When Mastercam creates a trimmed surface (for example, fence
surface or flat boundary surface), it also creates an untrimmed,
blanked base surface or parent surface. It uses the base surface for
future modifications of the surface. In some cases (flat boundary
surfaces, for example), the base surface boundaries may extend
beyond the visible surface boundaries.
In most cases, you will not use or be aware of the base surface. The
sections that follow note occasions when the base surface has an effect
on an action.
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Surface Creation • 625
73
Base surface
74
Surface Display 756
In addition to the shading settings, you can control the appearance of
surfaces and solids by setting:
Surface drawing density.
Highlight on the back of surfaces (wireframe only). Displays
7
the side opposite the surface normal in a different color (the
surface background color).
Surface background color. Used in wireframe display to
highlight the side of the surface opposite the surface normal.
78
Surface motion color.
3 Select a color.
fte
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7
72
73
When you select curves for a ruled surface, the selected ends of each
pair of curves (curve one and two, two and three, and so on) compose
one edge of the surface. When you select a curve or chain of curves, a
temporary arrow displays at the closest endpoint to show which end is
74
selected.
TIPS:
• To better match curves, or chains of curves, select the curves
756
using the Sync chaining method (Chaining Options dialog
box). This method allows you to match curves manually or
by entity, branch, node, or point.
• As long as the surface is live, you can rechain the curves and
7
switch the surface between ruled and lofted.
710
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7
628 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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73
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74
You can define a swept surface using the following combinations of
across (section) and along (path) chains.
1 across/1 along - Mastercam sweeps one across curve down
one along curve. You have the option to translate or rotate the
756
across curve chain along the path.
2 or more across/1 along - Mastercam transitions from one
across curve to the next in the order in which you define them
while following one along curve. This is known as a linear
blend.
7
1 across/2 along - Mastercam proportionally scales one across
curve between two along curves.
Figure 7-15: Example: Swept surface, 1 across/2 along 78
79
710
7
630 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
ex
yle
Ap
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7
632 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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TIP: If the curve used to create the fence surface is not trimmed
to the base surface, the fence surface will not be trimmed. Trim
the curve before creating the fence surface.
7
72
73
74
Note: The resulting draft surfaces are not trimmed nor filleted. 756
Figure 7-22: Example: Two draft surfaces
7
78
79
Creating Extruded Surfaces 710
An extruded surface appears to be “forced” or extruded
through the chained geometry of existing entities
perpendicular to the plane of the entities. You control the
resulting surface by specifying the height and direction of the
7
extrusion (positive, negative, or both), and the axis orientation of the
extrusion.
634 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
You can also apply a taper angle to the extrusion, and rotate it, scale it,
and offset it. All transformations are applied relative to the base point,
which is the approximate center of gravity.
Figure 7-23: Extruded Surface dialog box
Filleting Surfaces
In this section, you will learn to use the following functions in the
Create, Surface, Fillet Surface submenu to fillet selected surfaces:
Fillet Surfaces to Surfaces (page 635)
Fillet Surfaces to Curves (page 636)
Fillet Surfaces to a Plane (page 636)
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Surface Creation • 635
In some cases, having only one set of surfaces could prove more
time-consuming. For example, if you have multiple surface walls
and a single surface floor all in a single set, the system looks for
intersections between all walls and the floor. If, however, you select
the walls as one set of surfaces and the floor as the second set of
surfaces, the system looks for intersections only between each wall
and the floor.
Select the surfaces you want to fillet and press Enter. Chain the
curve to which you want the surface to be filleted. Click Apply or
Enter when done.
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When you choose this option, you are prompted to select the first
set of surfaces you want to trim. When you finish selecting surfaces,
press Enter. Repeat these steps on the surface to which you want
the first one to be trimmed. Use the ribbon bar options to modify
the selections and click Apply or press Enter when done.
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72
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Use current construction attributes
Select the surface you want to trim and press Enter. Chain the curve
to which you want the surface to be trimmed and click the part of 73
the surface you want to keep. You can also choose whether to
extend the curves to the surface edge as part of the trim function, or
to split the trimmed surface into multiple split surfaces, based on
the number of intersection curves formed from the trim. Click
Apply or Enter when done.
74
If the trimming curves do not lie directly on the surfaces,
Mastercam projects them onto the surfaces in order to calculate the
intersection where the surface will be trimmed. 756
Trimming Surfaces to a Plane
Choose Create, Surface, Trim Surface, Trim Surfaces to a Plane.
Figure 7-29: Surface to Plane ribbon bar
7
78
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In the graphics window, select a surface, and then select the edge to
extend. To extend the entire edge, press [Enter]. Alternatively, choose a
second edge point, to extend the portion of the edge between the two
selected points. Use the Flip button to switch which portion of the
edge that Mastercam extends.
Mastercam extends the edge by the value you enter in the Offset field.
Use the Miter and Round buttons to choose the type of outer corners
to create on the new surface.
When extending an edge with the Extend Trimmed Surface Edges
function, Mastercam does not modify the original surface. Instead,
Mastercam creates a new trimmed surface for the extended area.
Extending Surfaces
Use the Create, Surface, Surface Extend function to extend a
surface by a defined length or to a selected plane. You can
extend the surface linearly or following the curvature of the
surface.
After you select the surface to extend, Mastercam displays a temporary
arrow on the surface. Move the base of the arrow to the location where
you want to extend the surface, and then click to set the extension
location.
Figure 7-31: Surface Extend ribbon bar
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TIP: Make sure you have the correct visual cue (either face or
756
entire solid body) before you make your selection.
When you choose Create Surface from Solid, the Surface from Solids
ribbon bar displays. Use the ribbon bar’s buttons to create surfaces
7
with the system or solid attributes. You can also choose to keep the
solid or to delete it after the surface is created.
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79
Creating a Surface from a Flat Boundary
Flat boundary surfaces are trimmed NURBS surfaces created
710
within a boundary defined by a closed, flat chain. You create
flat boundary surfaces by chaining existing entities.
Mastercam creates the surface and trims it to the boundaries
of the chained entities.
7
642 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
A single closed chain defines the outer boundary of the flat boundary
surface. Chains nested entirely within this boundary form holes in the
surface. If chain is not completely enclosed within the first boundary
chain, Mastercam creates a separate surface. You can create multiple
surfaces by selecting chains that are not nested.
If you select open chains, Mastercam prompts you to close them
automatically. You can close the chains or remove the open chains
from calculation of the trimmed surface. If you close the open chains,
Mastercam calculates (but does not create) a curve between the two
open endpoints for the purpose of defining the closed boundary.
Figure 7-32: Flat Boundary Surface ribbon bar
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WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Surface Creation • 643
Use this ribbon bar to select surface edges and curves, and to set a gap
tolerance between flat boundary surfaces.
7
Filling Holes with Surfaces
You can fill holes in a trimmed surface using the Create,
Surface, Fill Hole with Surfaces function. 72
The holes may be internal holes (those that lie completely
within the outer boundary of the surface) or external holes (those that
lie along the trimmed outer boundary of the surface). If the surface
contains multiple internal holes, you can fill all holes or only selected 73
holes.
Mastercam fills the hole by creating a new trimmed surface within the
boundary defined by the hole. The surface Mastercam creates is
separate from the original surface, even though it appears to be part of 74
it when you display it as a wireframe.
Figure 7-34: Fill Holes with Surfaces ribbon bar
756
t
lec
Se
When filling holes in a flat boundary surface, if you select the outer
boundary as the boundary to be filled, Mastercam fills the area 7
between the outer boundary of the flat boundary surface and the
blanked base surface, which extends beyond the flat boundary surface.
Note: The Fill Holes with Surfaces function differs from the
Remove Boundary from Trimmed Surface function in which
Mastercam removes the trimmed boundaries and recreates the
surface; it does not create a new surface to fill the holes.
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Surface Creation • 645
Note: This function differs from the Fill Holes function in which 74
Mastercam creates trimmed surfaces to fill the holes. When using
Fill Holes, no trimmed boundaries are removed.
756
Splitting Surfaces
When you split a surface, you break it along one of its
constant parameter directions, which are the two directions
Mastercam uses to generate the surface. Mastercam then
7
creates two trimmed surfaces within the same boundary. If the break
point you select permits the surface to be broken in two ways,
Mastercam prompts you to select the direction along which you want
to split it. 78
Figure 7-35: Split Surface ribbon bar
Untrimming Surfaces
When you untrim a trimmed surface, Mastercam returns the
surface to its base surface.
Figure 7-36: Untrim Surface ribbon bar
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Blending Surfaces
In this section, you will learn to create blended surfaces using
functions in the Create, Surface submenu. These functions allow you
to smooth out part of a surface model by eliminating unwanted
features.
The following examples illustrate blends created from the same two
surfaces using different parallel and perpendicular blend directions.
TIPS:
To select a blend location at an existing point, type S to activate
snapping. Move the base of the arrow over the desired point,
then left-click to “snap” to it.
7
72
73
This function is useful for rounding the corners of a filleted box. It is
similar to blending three surfaces. However, the location where the
blend surface(s) are tangent to the fillet surfaces is calculated, not
selected. When you choose this option, you are prompted to select the
74
three intersecting surface fillets in the graphics window. Before
blending the selected filleted surfaces, use options in the 3 Fillet Blend
dialog box to:
reselect the three surface fillets, as necessary
756
indicate whether to create a blend surface with three or six
sides
optionally trim surfaces and keep lines 7
78
79
710
7
650 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Solids
Unlike wireframe and surface models, which consist of multiple
curves and surface entities, a solid model is a single entity, regardless
of its complexity. However, a solid model may consist of several solid
bodies.
You work with a solid model as a whole, like molding a piece of clay.
For example, whether you add fillets to a solid, hollow it out, or
combine it with another solid, the resulting solid model remains a
single entity. Each Mastercam function you perform on a solid entity is
saved as a separate operation on the solid. In the Solids Manager, you
can view a complete history of the operations used to create a solid,
and move, edit, or delete them.
Because a solid is a closed, organized model, Mastercam manages the
interior and exterior of the model for you, handling the complexities of
the model “behind the scenes.” This makes it easy to work with solid
modeling. When you create or edit operations on a solid, Mastercam
automatically determines the surfaces to keep or trim in order to
maintain the solid as a single entity.
Basic solid model functions include extrude, revolve, sweep, loft, fillet,
and shell. This section provides an overview of how to create, select,
and perform operations on solid models. You will also learn to use the
Solids Manager and its right–click menus to manage and modify solids
and their operations. Topics in this section include:
Creating a Solid Model: Process Overview (page 651)
Solids Associativity (page 652)
Selecting Solids (page 655)
Combining Solid Operations (page 656)
Working with Solid Functions (page 657)
Solids Manager (page 682)
Editing Solid Models (page 689)
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 651
Solids Associativity
Solids associativity is the dependent relationship between a solid, the
operations that define it, and any geometry selected in its definition.
When you perform a solid operation such as extrude, fillet, or draft
face, Mastercam associates it with the solid that it creates or modifies.
This association can be broken only by deleting the operation.
Because an operation is associated with the solid that it creates or
modifies, you cannot copy operations or move them to a different
solid. For example, when rechaining a fillet operation, all of the new
edges that you select must be on the same solid where the operation
was originally defined. To fillet edges on a different solid, you must
create a new fillet operation on that solid.
Associativity eliminates the need to recreate a solid each time you
modify it. After editing an operation’s components (geometry and
parameters), you can regenerate the solid to incorporate your changes.
The following terms describe a solid operation and the current state of
its associativity.
Clean: An operation whose defining parameters and
geometry match the associated solid. This condition applies
to all newly created operations and to operations that have
been successfully regenerated. For a solid to be stable and
current, its operations must be clean.
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 653
74
Clean operation
756
Dirty operation
7
Invalid operation
78
Associativity also exists between some solid operations. For example, if
a cut operation results in a new face, and you subsequently fillet that
79
face, the fillet operation is dependent on the cut operation. If you
delete the cut operation, Mastercam deletes the fillet operation as well
because the edge that defined the fillet operation no longer exists. In
the Solids Manager, a defining operation always precedes a dependent
710
operation in the list.
Unless solids in the same file are used in Boolean combinations,
associativity does not exist between individual solids in a Mastercam
file. When you perform a Boolean operation, Mastercam associates the
7
tool body with the target body if possible, provided you do not perform
a non-associative Boolean Remove or Common regions operation.
654 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Selecting Solids
Use the General Selection ribbon bar to select entities in the graphics 7
window. This ribbon bar operates in two different modes: Standard
Selection and Solid Selection. The availability of either mode is based
on the types of entities that are in the current file and the functions
you choose from Mastercam menus and toolbars. 72
If there are no solids in your file, the Solid Selection mode is not
available; you can use only Standard Selection options.
Figure 7-40: Standard Selection mode
73
Note: For more information on Standard Selection techniques, see
“Selecting Entities” on page 174.
74
If you choose a Mastercam function specific to a solid entity, the
General Selection ribbon bar automatically switches to the Solid
Selection mode. Mastercam solid selection is very flexible. In Solid
756
Selection mode, you can choose from a variety of solid selection
options, including select edge, select face, select body, select from
back, and select last.
Figure 7-41: Solid Selection mode
7
78
Solid Selection options
Note: The Verify, UnSelect All, End Selection, and Help options
are always available, regardless of the current selection mode.
79
If you choose a Mastercam function that applies to different types of
entities (wireframe, surfaces, or solids), use the following methods to
switch between selection modes and select entities: 710
To switch from the default Standard Selection mode
to the Solid Selection mode, choose the
Activate Solid Selection button.
To switch from Solid Selection mode to the Standard
7
Selection mode, choose the Standard Selection
button.
656 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
For example, if the part file you are working with contains a surface
and a solid entity, and you want to create toolpaths for both entities,
choose a toolpath function from the Toolpath menu. Then use the
Activate Solid Selection and Standard Selection options to toggle
between the two modes and select the appropriate entities.
Solid Sweep
(page 661)
Remove Solid Faces
(page 670)
73
Solid Loft (page 662) Draft Solid Faces (page 671)
Solid Fillet
(page 664)
Boolean Operations
(page 675) 74
Solid Face-Face Fillet Solid Find Features
(page 664) (page 676)
Chamfer Functions
(page 666)
Solid From Surfaces
(page 678)
756
Solid Shell Layout (page 679)
(page 668)
7
Solid Extrude
The Solid Extrude function allows you to extrude planar
chains of curves and create: 78
One or more new solid bodies
Cuts on an existing body
Bosses on an existing body
Mastercam extrudes chains of curves by driving the shape of the
79
curves along a linear path using a specified direction, distance, and
other parameters that further define the results. The number of
resulting solids, cuts, or bosses depends on the number of chains that
you select, whether the chains are nested, whether you combine
710
operations, and what construction method you use.
7
658 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Solid Revolve
You can revolve planar chains of curves to create one or
more new solid bodies, cuts on an existing body, or bosses
on an existing body. This function revolves chains of curves
by driving the shape of the curves about a selected axis,
using the start and end angles, and other parameters you provide. The
number of resulting solids, cuts, or bosses depends on the number of
chains that you select, whether the chains are nested, whether you
combine operations, and what construction method you use.
Figure 7-43: Solid Revolve dialog boxes
Note: The rotation direction follows the right-hand rule, with the
axis direction vector representing the positive Z axis. 7
Editing Geometry for Revolve Operations
You can edit the underlying chains of curves that define a revolved
solid, cut, or boss.
72
Notes:
• You cannot delete the base chain. The base chain is the
outermost chain of curves, which defines the outer boundary, or
73
cross section, of the solid.
• The Revolve operation can have more than one chain only if
there is an outermost chain that defines a closed boundary
around the other chains. The chains that are nested within this
74
boundary form cutouts in the solid and lie in the same plane.
You cannot use the thin-wall construction method in this case.
• To edit the rotation axis of a revolved solid, cut, or boss, you
must edit the solid’s parameters. 756
Solid Sweep
Use the Solid Sweep function to sweep closed, planar chains
7
of curves, called section chains, to create one or more new
solid bodies, cuts on an existing body, or bosses on an
existing body. Mastercam sweeps chains of curves by
translating and rotating the shape of the curves along the entire
distance of a single chain of curves, called the path chain. The angle
78
between the section chains and the path chain is maintained
throughout each resulting swept solid. The number of resulting solids,
cuts, or bosses depends on the number of chains that you select,
whether the chains are nested, and whether you combine operations.
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7
662 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• You cannot delete the base chain.
• The Sweep operation can have more than one section chain only
if there is an outermost chain that defines a closed boundary
around the other chains. The chains that are nested within this
boundary form cutouts in the solid.
Solid Loft
You can loft closed chains of curves to create a new solid
body, a cut on an existing body, or a boss on an existing body.
When you use this function, Mastercam performs a loft
operation by transitioning between two or more chains of
curves in the order that you select them using either smooth or ruled
(linear) blending between the chains and by capping the first and last
chains with solid faces. The start point of each chain and the sync
method that you use when selecting the chains affect how Mastercam
aligns the selected chains as it transitions between them.
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 663
7
72
73
For a Loft operation to succeed, the selected chains of curves must
meet the following criteria:
Each individual chain of curves must be planar; however, the
set of chains that you select does not have to be planar.
74
Each chain of curves must form a closed boundary.
All of the chains that you select must follow the same chaining
direction. 756
You cannot select a chain of curves more than once for a given
loft operation.
A selected chain of curves cannot self-intersect.
Editing Geometry for Loft Operations
7
You can edit the chains of curves that define the cross sections of a
lofted solid, cut, or boss. There must be a minimum of two closed,
planar chains to define a lofted operation. 78
Time-saving Tips for Creating Lofted Solids
Lofted solids sometimes require a large amount of processing time,
especially when the lofted solid is defined by many chains or if some or
all of the chains contain splines. You can increase the calculation
79
speed for lofted solids by trying one or more of the following actions:
Limit the number of chains to four or five and select the
chains that provide the most accurate overall definition for
the solid.
710
Create the lofted solid as a ruled solid, which takes less time to
calculate, by selecting the Create as Ruled parameter on the
Loft Chain dialog box.
Use a sync method when selecting the chains. By indicating
7
how the chains should be aligned, you reduce the time it takes
for Mastercam to calculate the solid.
664 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Solid Fillet
Solid filleting is a type of edge blending that results in a
rounded edge by introducing new faces that are tangent to
the edges’ adjacent faces. A fillet is also referred to as a
rolling ball blend because it has a circular cross section, as if
a ball is rolled along each selected edge and material is either added to
or removed from the ball’s path to form the smooth edge. When using
the Fillet function, you determine the extent of the fillet by specifying
the radius of the rolling ball or cross section. You can define the fillet’s
radius using a constant radius value or by varying the radius value
along the edge. For fillet operations using a variable radius, you can
also specify radius positions and values along a solid edge.
Figure 7-46: Solid Fillet dialog box
7
72
The faces within each set need not be contiguous with each other nor
adjacent to the faces in the other set. The resulting fillet blends the first
face in each of the two sets and continues across other faces in the sets
to the extent that a single continuous fillet can be created. 73
Figure 7-48: Example: Face-Face fillet across non-adjacent face
74
756
Figure 7-49: Example: Face-Face fillet over embedded entity
7
78
The Face-Face Fillet Parameters dialog box options allow you to create
both rolling-ball and constant curvature fillets by selecting the
constant radius, constant width, constant width-ratio, single hold line
or double hold line methods. Use other options to propagate fillets
along tangent faces and designate a Help Point.
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666 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Chamfer Functions
A chamfer, or beveled edge, is a type of edge blending that has a linear
cross section. You chamfer solid edges by introducing new faces that
add material to or remove material from the selected edges and that
are not tangent with the adjoining faces of the original edge. You
determine the extent of the chamfer by specifying distances and,
optionally, an angle to offset the chamfer from the selected edge on the
adjoining faces.
Chamfers that are created on the edges of selected faces or whole solid
bodies are associative. If edges are added to or removed from a
chamfered face or body, the entire face or body remains chamfered,
regardless of the changes.
Mastercam provides three functions you can use to define where the
chamfer is positioned along the edge faces:
One Distance
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 667
Two Distances
7
72
first face that you select defines the reference face for the
shared edge.
When the One Distance chamfer function is used. A chamfer
created with this method is symmetrical, and the same
chamfer distance is used for both edge faces.
Solid Shell
To hollow solid bodies with the Solid Shell function, choose
the material to remove and, optionally, select the faces you
want to remain open. The remaining faces are thickened by
the amount you specify. You can re-select the geometry that
defines a shell operation for editing.
Figure 7-51: Shell Solid dialog box
When you shell whole solids, there are no entry holes into the solid,
and you cannot see into the solid if it is shaded. However, you can view
the void in the interior of the solid if you use translucent shading.
Similarly, you can turn on the display of hidden lines to distinguish the
7
solid’s inner walls. For more information, see “Displaying Surfaces and
Solids” on page 616.
Solid Trim
72
Use the Solid Trim function to trim selected solids to a plane,
to a surface, or to an open sheet body. You can also choose
whether or not to keep what was trimmed as new bricks
(solid bodies with no history) and change the trimming
73
direction.
Figure 7-52: Trim Solid dialog box
74
756
7
Solid Thicken
78
The Solid Thicken function allows you to thicken an open
sheet solid and thereby convert it into a closed solid body.
You can use this function in conjunction with the From
Surfaces (stitch surfaces into solids) function to turn
79
selected surfaces into a solid that can be managed like any other solid
created in Mastercam.
7
670 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
73
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756
You can draft virtually any solid face, regardless of whether the solid
was created in Mastercam or imported from an external file format.
For example, a filleted face can be drafted, which changes its geometry
7
from cylindrical to planar, like a chamfered face.
When a face is drafted, the adjacent faces are trimmed and/or
extended to accommodate the new geometry of the drafted face. If the
adjacent faces are unable to accommodate the new geometry, the
78
operation fails. Failure is more likely to occur with larger draft angles
or if adjacent faces are tangent (or near tangent) and are not also being
drafted. In some cases, drafting results in faces being deleted from the
solid.
79
The Draft Faces function provides various methods you can use to
draft solid faces. The method that you choose determines where a
drafted face hinges. Each method is described below.
Draft to Face—Drafts solid faces using a planar reference face. You
710
select the planar reference face that is used to calculate where the
drafted face hinges and the draft direction. The drafted face hinges
at the intersection of the original face (the face selected to be
drafted) and the reference face. The hinge point can be located on
7
672 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Face to be
drafted
Planar reference face
Drafted face
Original face (replaced
by drafted face)
Faces extended to
accommodate
drafted face
7
72
73
Draft to Edge—Drafts solid faces using one or more reference edges.
You select one or more edges on each face being drafted. The
reference edges that you select define the hinge points for the
74
drafted faces. The draft direction is defined by a selected linear
edge or planar face. For a linear edge, the draft direction follows the
edge. For a planar face, the draft direction is perpendicular to the
face. The draft angle is measured with respect to the direction. The
756
following examples show a face that is successfully drafted using
multiple reference edges that were selected along the bottom of the
left-most face.
Figure 7-59: Example 1: Draft to Edge
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78
79
Figure 7-60: Example 2: Draft to Edge
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674 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Boolean Operations
You can construct a solid using combinations of two or more existing 7
solids using Boolean functions to add solids together, remove solids
from one another, and find the common region defined by
overlapping solids. For a Boolean Remove or Common operation, you
can choose whether or not to maintain associativity. 72
Boolean operations are a set of functions (Add, Remove, and
Common) that enable solid construction using combinations of two or
more existing solids. Solids can be added together, and removed
(subtracted) from one another. Common regions defined by solids can
be kept while all other material is removed. For each Boolean function,
73
a target body and one or more tool bodies must be selected. The result
of a Boolean operation is always a single solid, regardless of the
number of tool bodies selected.
To initiate a Boolean operation that maintains associativity,
74
choose Boolean Add, Boolean Remove, or Boolean Common
from the Solids menu.
Boolean Add Boolean Remove Boolean Common 756
To initiate a non-associative Boolean operation, choose Non-
associative from the Solids menu, then choose Remove NA
7
or Common regions NA from the submenu.
Remove NA Common regions NA
78
Whichever function you choose, you must then identify a target body.
This is the solid that material is added to, removed from, or
overlapped. Next you select one or more tool bodies, which are the
79
solids that are added to, removed from, or overlapped with the target
body. To perform the operation, choose the End selection option from
the General selection ribbon bar. 710
IMPORTANT: Regardless of the number of tool bodies, the
result of each Boolean operation is always a single body.
7
72
73
74
When operating on a brick, the Find Features function modifies the 756
solid by removing features and adding operations to its history, while
maintaining the modified brick as a solid body at the top of the history
tree. The Find Features function only recognizes features on imported
brick solids or on brick solids created in Mastercam from stitching,
Boolean, or trim operations.
7
IMPORTANT: The Find Features function does not recognize
solid bodies with dirty, invalid, or suppressed operations.
Regenerate these solids and restore them to a clean state
78
before using the Find Features function. For more information
on using the Solid Manager Suppress function, see “Suppress
Solid Operations” on page 684.
79
Finding, Removing, and Creating Fillets on a Solid Body
You can detect, remove, and create constant-radius fillets on brick
solids. Only fillets whose radius falls within a specified range are
detected. Combining operations fillets similar edges as one
710
operation in history.
Layout
73
To create a layout of different views of solids in the current
file (for example, top, side, front, and isometric), use Layout.
You can choose from the following standard layouts: 74
4View DIN: bottom, front, left, and isometric views
4View ANSI: top, front, right, and isometric views
3View DIN: bottom, front, and left views
3View ANSI: top, front, and right views
756
Or you can use create your own layout containing up to four named
views.
7
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710
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680 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Once you create the basic layout from this dialog box, you can use the
Edit Solid Drawing Layout dialog box options to customize it further
by editing settings such as Hidden Lines, Paper Size, or Scale Factor.
You can also add, remove, and modify views.
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 681
7
72
73
74
756
7
78
To add a cross-section view to the drawing layout, choose the
Add Section button. You can define the cross-section view
79
based on a straight horizontal or vertical line through any
point in the part, a zigzag cross-section, or a 3D plane. In
addition to selecting the point(s) or plane where you want the
section to divide, you can set a color, scale factor, and location
710
for the section view. When you create a section view, short line
segments are added to all the applicable views, showing the
precise location and orientation of the section.
Use the Add View button to add a defined view to the drawing
7
layout, and optionally, choose a color and scale factor for the
new view.
682 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Mastercam places the new drawings on a new level so you can easily
keep them separate from your original part. The default level is 255,
but you can specify a different level before saving the layout.
TIP: You can use the Layout function multiple times, for the
same solid or for different one. Each time you create a new
layout, make sure you select a new level for it (unless you want
to replace the existing layout).
Solids Manager
Use the Operations Manager pane in the Mastercam window to access
the Solids Manager tab and view information on each solid in the
current file.
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 683
7
72
73
74
756
You can expand the tree structure of a solid to view all operations that
were performed to construct the solid and view any toolpaths that
were created on the solid.
7
Besides listing the operations that define a solid, the Solids Manager
tab provides options for managing and editing solids and solid
operations. To access these options, right–click a solid or operation in
the list. The following section describes how to use the Solids Manager
78
and some of the functions you can perform.
Topics in the next section introduce the tools you use to work with
7
solid models, including:
684 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
X To suppress an operation:
1 From the Solids Manager tab, select the solid operation to
suppress.
2 Right–click and verify that the operation is not already
suppressed (no check mark appears next to this option in the
menu).
3 Choose Suppress. This activates the feature for the selected
operation and removes the operation from view in the
graphics window. In the right–click menu for the selected
operation, a check mark indicator appears next to the
Suppress function and the icon in the Solids Manager appears
unavailable.
To restore a suppressed operation, select it from the Solids Manager,
right–click and choose Suppress from the menu. Mastercam restores
the operation to the graphics window and removes the check mark
from the function in the menu.
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 685
Notes:
• The stop operation is inserted after the operation on which you
release the mouse button.
• To return the solid to its original state, drag the Stop Op icon to
the last operation in the list. When you release the mouse
button, the operation is inserted after the final operation in the
list.
7
72
73
To expand or contract a tree structure, click the plus (+) or minus
(-) sign preceding a solid or solids operation (or double-click the item). 74
Note: Imported solids have no operation history. The tree structure
of an imported solid lists only the operations that have been
performed on the solid since it was imported into Mastercam. 756
Editing Solid Models
The Solids Manager provides a number of tools and functions for
7
editing solid models. In this section, you will learn to:
Edit Solid Parameters (page 689)
Edit Solid Attributes (page 691)
Delete Solids and Solid Operations (page 692)
78
Regenerate Solids (page 692)
Duplicate Solids (page 694)
Change the Order of Solid Operations (page 694)
79
Edit Solid Parameters
You can edit the parameters that define a selected operation in a
manner similar to editing toolpath operations. Some of the original
710
defining parameters, however, may not be editable. For example, you
cannot change an extrude, revolve, sweep, or loft operation from a
create to a cut or boss, but you can change any of these operations
from a cut to a boss—provided the change would not create disjoint
7
bodies. There are no parameters available for editing Boolean and
Trim operations. For these operations, you can edit only their
690 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
756
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78
79
X To edit solid attributes:
1 From the Solids Manager, select a solid name from the list.
Note: Although they appear in the dialog box, the Line Style and
Line Width fields are not currently used with solid models.
4 To accept your changes and exit the dialog box, choose OK.
TIP: You can also use the Analyze function from the Analyze
menu to edit the level and color attributes of a selected solid.
For more information, see “Changing Entity Attributes” on
page 377.
Regenerate Solids
Regeneration is the process of rebuilding a solid so that it matches its
associated operations. This is required whenever a solid becomes dirty
or invalid due to changes to the parameters and/or geometry of one or
WORKING WITH SURFACES AND SOLIDS / Solids • 693
Duplicate Solids
You can make exact copies of solids, including tool bodies. Each copy
is an active solid that you can select and edit. This function is
particularly useful if you want to use the same tool body to affect
different target solids.
X To duplicate a solid:
1 From the Solids Manager, select the solid to copy.
84
85
The machine definition files for each product have unique file
extensions that represent the selected machine type:
.MMD (Mill)
.LMD (Lathe)
86
.RMD (Router)
.WMD (Wire)
When you select a machine definition from the Machine Type menu,
all of the following things happen automatically:
87
A machine group and toolpath group are created in the
Toolpath Manager.
The proper control definition is loaded. 8
The post processor is identified, based on the selection saved
in the machine definition.
A copy of the machine and control definition is loaded in the
newly created machine group and saved with the part file.
89
810
698 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: Each machine group can have only one machine definition.
Mastercam creates a separate machine group and toolpath group
each time you choose a machine type from the Machine Type
menu.
The machine definition you access from the machine group is a local
copy of the “master” machine definition. The master machine
definition is stored in an external file. The copy is created from this
external file when you select the machine definition and is stored
locally within the part file. There is no associative link between the
master machine definition file and the part file copy. This
independent, portable structure allows you to move the part to
another Mastercam workstation and transfer the required machine
and control definition information. You can also modify aspects of the
machine definition in a machine group without affecting the machine
definition and control definition files stored in Mastercam.
Use the Files of type drop-down list to choose the format of the files
you want to view and select from. This limits the files you can view to
only files in the selected format.
If you select a non-native file type from the Files of type list,
Mastercam enables the Options button. Use this button to open a
SETTING UP TOOLPATHS / Opening / Importing / Merging Part Files • 701
dialog box of read parameters for the selected file type. Mastercam
uses the parameters to import and convert the chosen file. The
example below illustrates options for opening and importing an SAT
file type:
8
82
83
84
Note: The default values in read parameters dialog boxes are
based on settings defined in the Settings, Configuration,
85
Converters properties page. For more information, see “Setting
Defaults and Preferences (Configuration)” on page 111.
To navigate to the location of the file you want to open, use the Look in
86
drop-down list located at the top of the Open dialog box. Or use
additional options in this dialog box to view and select the file:
810
702 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Previewing a File
In the Open dialog box, activate the Preview and Descriptor panes with
the Preview and Descriptor check boxes. Use the Preview pane to see a
thumbnail of a selected file. The Descriptor pane shows the text
descriptor associated with the file. To browse files faster, deselect the
check boxes to turn off the Preview and Descriptor options.
Figure 8-3: The Preview and Descriptor panes
box informs you that Mastercam must switch units by loading the
alternate default configuration file.
8
82
83
Select one of the following options to switch units and open the
selected file:
Units: Uses only the units defined in the new configuration
84
file. (default)
All settings: Loads all settings from the new configuration
file.
85
Using the Places Bar
All of the file dialogs feature a customizable Places bar, in which you
can add or remove shortcuts to your own folders, as well as change the
86
order in which the folders are listed. Right-click in the Places bar to
display the menu shown in the picture below:
87
8
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704 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• If you do not have Mastercam Solids installed, you can still 8
machine an imported solid. However, Mastercam Solids must
be installed to modify a solid, or create additional solids (with
the exception of primitives).
• You can also save .MCX files out to any supported file format.
For more information on the files types you can import and
82
export, see “Opening and Translating Files” on page 58.
2 In the Open dialog box, use the Files of type drop-down list
and select MCX, MC9, or MC8.
3 Use other options to navigate to the file location, select the
84
file, and choose OK.
4 If the selected file uses the same unit of measure (English or
metric) as the current configuration file, skip to Step 5. 85
Otherwise, in the System Configuration (switch units) dialog
box, choose Units or All settings to switch units and load an
alternate default configuration file.
5 When opening the selected file, Mastercam automatically
86
runs an integrity/efficiency check to remove instabilities in
the file. It verifies the information stored in the file, such as
associativity, machine and toolpath groups, operations, tools,
and more. 87
If the file passes the integrity check, you can begin working
with it.
If problems are detected, Mastercam reports detailed
information on all errors it finds. In some cases, you can
8
choose to have Mastercam fix the errors, or use the Details
option to view, print, and optionally save the error details
to a file. Before working with the file, you must manually
correct any reported problems. 89
Note: Mastercam part files from X2 and the initial version of
Mastercam X are not compatible, even though they both have an
.MCX extension. Mastercam automatically translates older
Mastercam X files to the X2 format when you open them.
810
706 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
2 In the Open dialog box, use the Files of type drop-down list
and select a non-Mastercam file format.
3 To set import parameters:
a Choose Options.
b In the read parameters dialog box for the selected file type,
complete the fields as necessary.
c To accept the parameters and return to the Open dialog
box, click OK.
4 Use other Open dialog box options to navigate to the file
location, select the file to import, and choose OK.
The selected file is imported and converted to the current
Mastercam format (MCX) using the settings in the
Configuration, Converters properties page and, if applicable,
the import read parameters you defined in Step 3. In most
cases, the default machine definition is assigned to the
imported file.
2 In the Open dialog box, use the Files of type drop-down list
8
and other options to navigate to the file location.
3 Select the file containing the entities you want to add to the
current file and choose OK. The entities in the selected file are
added to the file in the local origin position (X0, Y0, Z0) and
82
the Top view. The merged entities are “live” so that you can
edit them.
4 Use options in the Merge / Pattern ribbon bar to select a new
base point for placing the merged entities and to define their
83
scale, rotation angle, and mirror axis (X, Y, or Z).
Figure 8-4: Merge / Pattern ribbon bar
84
s
te
bu
tri
at
nt
te
t
85
r
lec
ale
rre
ta
irr
Se
Ro
Sc
Cu
Notes:
• Use the Select option to create a point that positions the center
of the pattern file.
86
• Pattern entities are created in the current Cplane.
TIPS:
• Consider storing the files containing pattern entities in a
separate directory, such as \Patterns, so they are easy to
locate when you use this function.
• To remove merged entities in the order in which they were
added to the current file, choose Undo from the Edit menu or
toolbar.
SETTING UP TOOLPATHS / Setting Machine Group Properties • 709
Toolpath Manager
functions
Machine group
82
Machine (machine group properties)
Toolpath group
83
Toolpath group operations
Toolpath subgroup
84
Toolpath subgroup operations
TIP: When you position the cursor in the Toolpath Manager, the
86
Toolpath Manager options become active; any keyboard
commands you enter are executed in the Toolpath Manager.
This focus is deactivated when you move the cursor outside of
the Toolpath Manager pane, and different options become
87
active.
8
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712 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
TIPS:
• Mastercam saves the most recently used plane, view, and
WCS selections for each machine group, and restores them
whenever you activate the machine group. For example, if
one machine group has toolpaths on the front of the part,
and another machine group has toolpaths on the side of the
part, when you activate a machine group, Mastercam
automatically activates the views and planes you were using
the last time the group was active.
• To activate a machine group when working in Mastercam
Design (choose Machine Type, Design), select the machine
group in the Toolpath Manager, and then right–click and
choose Make machine group active. This loads the
associated Mastercam application (Mill, Router, Lathe, Wire).
SETTING UP TOOLPATHS / Setting Machine Group Properties • 713
Move up one item. Position below last item in the selected operation / group. 8
Move down one item. Scroll Toolpath Manager view to insert arrow position.
82
Active machine group
83
84
85
Insert arrow indicates
the active machine
group and the position
of the next operation
you create.
86
Drag and drop the
insert arrow to a new
position, or use the
arrow buttons to
87
reposition it in the list.
8
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714 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
82
When you use either method, Mastercam creates a new machine
group for the selected machine definition and a new toolpath group
directly below the new machine group. 83
The new machine group and toolpath group are inserted at the end of
the Toolpath Manager list.
Both groups are assigned a unique default name, such as Machine
Group-1, Machine Group-2, Toolpath Group-1, Toolpath Group-2, and
84
so on.
83
84
Each property type corresponds to a tab in the Machine Group
Properties dialog box.
To open the Machine Group Properties dialog box, select a property
type from the Toolpath Manager list. Then use the tabs in the dialog
85
box to view and edit the settings.
Default values for many machine group properties are saved in the
toolpath defaults (.DEFAULTS) file. Use the Files tab to edit them: 86
87
Defaults for some properties are set in the control definition. The
sections for the individual tabs list these.
8
In this section, you will learn to set parameters in each of the following
Machine Group Properties dialog box tabs:
Files Tab (page 718) 89
Tool Settings Tab(page 722)
Stock Setup Tab(page 727)
Safety Zone Tab(page 730)
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718 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Files Tab
Use the Files tab to view and define the file names and data paths used
by operations in the selected machine group. These settings affect
default values, posting, and tool and operation libraries.
The default tool library for a new machine group is set in the machine
definition as part of the General Machine Parameters. You can use the
Files tab to change the default library for the selected machine group.
No matter what the default tool library is, though, when you create a
new toolpath you can always open any tool library and select tools
from it.
Note: Many of the default paths and filenames that display in the
Machine Group Properties, Files tab are values you initially set in
the Control Definition Manager, Files and Operation Defaults
properties pages. For more information on these settings, see
“Files” on page 872 and “Operation Defaults” on page 892.
SETTING UP TOOLPATHS / Setting Machine Group Properties • 719
8
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To learn more about the Files tab, review the following information:
Defining the Toolpath (NC File) Name (page 719)
87
Setting up Machine Group Files (page 720)
Editing the Machine Definition (page 720)
Setting up Comments (page 721) 8
Defining the Toolpath (NC File) Name
In the Toolpath name field, type the default path and filename of the
NC file you want to create when posting operations from this machine
group, or choose the Open button to select a file. You can post only 89
operations from a single machine group at one time although you can
select one or more operations in the group you want to post.
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Note: The combined length of the NC file name plus its path (for
example, c:\mcamx\nc_files\program.nc) cannot be more than
120 characters.
IMPORTANT:
• If you select a different machine for the machine group, the
files and data paths are replaced with default values from the
control definition used by the selected machine.
• If there are already operations in the machine group, be very
careful when selecting a different machine to ensure the new
machine supports all the toolpath features that have been
programmed.
Note: The control and post processor are displayed only for
information purposes. To change them, you must edit the machine
definition. For more information, see “Choosing a Machine and
Control Definition” on page 697.
SETTING UP TOOLPATHS / Setting Machine Group Properties • 721
Setting up Comments
In the Machine Group Properties Files tab, use the Output comments
to NC file section to choose the types of comments to include in the
8
NC file. In Mastercam, you can still view the comments that you
choose to exclude from the NC file.
To record comments that apply to all the operations in the selected
machine group, select the Output group comments to NC check box.
82
Notes:
• To set the defaults and enter the maximum number of
characters allowed for comments, use the Control Definition
83
Manager, NC Output properties page. For more information,
“NC Output” on page 874.
• When editing tool parameters, you can use the Comment field
in the Tool parameters tab (Toolpath parameters tab for Lathe)
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to enter operation-specific comments.
• You can also enter machine-specific comments when setting up
the machine definition.
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To learn more about the Tool Settings tab, review the following
information:
Numbering Tools Sequentially (page 723)
Calculating Default Feed rates (page 725)
Setting Other Toolpath Configuration Parameters (page 726)
Assigning Sequence Numbers (page 726)
Using Advanced Options (page 726)
SETTING UP TOOLPATHS / Setting Machine Group Properties • 723
Figure 8-8: Using the Machine Group Properties to number tools sequentially 82
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8
Use the Tool settings tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box to number your tools
sequentially, instead of using the tool number stored with the tool definition. The setting shown
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above applies only to operations created in the current machine group. See “Setting a default
tool numbering method” on page 724 to make this the default setting for future machine groups.
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Use the Tool settings tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box
to tell Mastercam your preference, as shown in Figure 8-8. When this
option is not selected, Mastercam reads the tool number from the tool
definition stored in the tool library when you select the tool.
Typically, this setting applies only to the current machine group. You
can make this the default setting for future machine groups by
completing the following procedure.
5 If you work with other .defaults files, select a new file from the
drop-down list and repeat Step 4. In particular, if you program
85
in both inch and metric units, you should edit both inch and
metric .defaults files.
6 Click OK to close the Edit Operation Defaults dialog box, and
close the Machine Group Properties dialog box.
86
Calculating Default Feed rates
Use this section to define the method used to calculate the default feed
rate for an operation. 87
The tool definition for each tool contains default plunge and
feed rates. Select From tool to use these values as the default
value for each operation when a tool is selected.
Select From material to calculate feed rate based on the
8
material characteristics stored in the material library. After
choosing this option, make sure to Select a material in the
Materials section of this tab.
Select From defaults to use the feed rate stored in the 89
operation defaults file.
The Feed section of the control definition contains important defaults
for calculating feed rates and sets how the control will interpret the
feed rate values that are entered for each toolpath, including how to
Adjust feed on arc move.
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Note: For information on Lathe Stock Setup options, see page 729.
Selecting Stock Model Types—There are several ways you can create
stock models.
Choose Rectangular or Cylindrical to create simple stock
models that are not defined by actual geometry. All
dimensions are entered in this dialog box and no geometry is
added to your part file. You can choose whether or not to
Display the stock on the screen.
Choose Solid to use a solid model inside the current part file
as the stock.
Choose File to use a solid model from an STL file as the stock
model.
Setting Stock Dimensions—You can use several techniques for setting
the stock dimensions. Type the dimensions directly into the X, Y, and Z
fields, or use one of the following methods when the exact dimensions
are unknown:
Choose Select corners to return to the graphics window and
select the two opposing corners of a 3D rectangle.
Choose Bounding box to calculate the furthest points in the
part geometry.
Choose NCI extents to calculate the furthest points in the
toolpaths, based on just the feed rate moves.
Mastercam automatically calculates the stock dimensions and
displays them in the fields. You can then edit them, as necessary.
Setting Stock Origin—Use the stock origin to locate the stock relative
to your part. First, choose a point on the stock to use for the stock
origin. In the dialog box, the cross shows you where the stock origin is:
The default position is the middle of the stock. Select a corner of the
part to set it as the stock origin.
Next, type the coordinates of this point in the Stock origin fields, or
click the Select button to choose a point from the graphics window.
SETTING UP TOOLPATHS / Setting Machine Group Properties • 729
Note: Use the Verify function to perform gouge checking. For more
information, see “Verifying Operations” on page 784. 8
Setting Stock View—Select a stock view to properly orient the stock
model with respect to the part. This may be necessary if you create
toolpaths in a work coordinate system (WCS) other than Top and want
to align the stock model to your part, or if you have several toolpaths in
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the machine group that use more than one WCS. The stock view keeps
the stock model constant when the WCS changes. You can align the
stock model to any named view saved in the part file.
To do this, click the Stock View button and select a view from the
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View Selection dialog box. The edges of the stock model are parallel
with the axes of the selected view.
Note: If you change the stock view, you might need to reset the stock
84
origin.
TIP: When creating open and closed chains, use options in the
Chaining dialog box to reverse the chain direction and move the
start or end position of the chain.
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Chaining Direction
All chains have a direction. Direction for closed chains is either
clockwise or counterclockwise, while the direction for open chains
points toward one of the chain endpoints. The chaining direction
determines the direction of tool movement in a toolpath.
In surface creation, Mastercam uses chaining direction to synchronize
the chains to create a smooth, regular surface. Errors in establishing
chaining direction often result in a twisted surface that cannot be
machined. In the example below, the arrow shows the
counterclockwise chaining direction for a closed chain that consists of
several lines and arcs. The chain starts at the base point of the arrow.
Chaining arrow
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738 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
it twists as shown below in the center picture. The twisting could affect
the surface of the part, making it unmachinable or irregular.
Original geometry
Notes:
• Drill, surface, point, and multiaxis toolpaths do not contain
chained geometry. When you choose the Geometry icon on these
toolpaths, Mastercam displays the appropriate dialog, such as
Surface Selection for a surface toolpath.
• If you are working in Mastercam Wire, you can configure
Mastercam to open the Chain Manager dialog box immediately
after you create a contour wirepath. To do so, select the Wire
check box in the Settings, Configuration, Toolpaths properties
page, and save the settings to your configuration file.
The Chain Manager is where you edit the geometry of toolpaths based
on chained geometry (rather than points). The Chain Manager lists all
the chains for the selected toolpath operation. Since chaining
determines the cut order, tool rapid moves, and the direction of tool
movement, you may find that you need to modify the chaining after
generating a toolpath.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Toolpath Chaining Techniques • 741
Add chain : Opens the Chaining dialog box and lets you select
one or more chains to add from the graphics window.
Change side: Swaps the cutter compensation for all chains in
the operation from one side to the other. Cutter
compensation refers to the tool offset from the toolpath (right
or left). This option has no effect on pocket toolpaths or
toolpaths that do not use cutter compensation.
Rechain all : Lets you replace all chains in the list with one or
more chains you select from graphics window.
Resync all : For some toolpaths, lets you select an alternate
synchronization method from the Sync Mode drop-down list,
which displays near the top of the dialog box.
Sort options: Opens the Sorting dialog box, where you can
re-sort chain order (by start point).
Delete chain: Deletes one or more selected chains from the
list. You can also:
Use the [Delete] key to delete one or more selected chains
in the list.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Toolpath Chaining Techniques • 743
Selecting Tools
In this section, you will learn about selecting tools and setting feeds,
speeds, and other general toolpath parameters. For most mill, router,
and lathe toolpath types, the Toolpath Parameters tab displays after
you chain or select geometry, solids, or surfaces for a new toolpath.
You can also access this tab by clicking the Parameters icon in the
Toolpath Manager list.
Selecting a Tool
The Toolpath parameters tab options vary, based on the selected
toolpath type. However, there are many common fields for all toolpath
types and the method you use to select a tool is basically the same. Mill
and router toolpath parameters are very similar. Lathe toolpaths share
some mill and router toolpath parameters, but also include many that
are unique to lathe machine tools. To become more familiar with the
differences and similarities between Mill / Router and Lathe toolpath
parameters, compare the following examples.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Selecting Tools • 745
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Figure 9-4: Example: Lathe Rough Toolpath parameters tab
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Use the large area in the left section of the Toolpath parameters tab to
select a tool for the operation. All tools that have been added to or are
used in the current machine group display in this area by default.
To change the tools display, similar to setting Windows file view
options, right–click in this area and choose an option from the View
menu.
If you display tools in a list, you can sort the list by clicking on column
headers. To reorder the columns, click and drag them to new positions.
Use one of the following methods to select a tool:
In the tool display area, click the tool you want to use.
If the tool you want is not displayed, choose Select library
tool. This opens the Tool Selection dialog box where you can
select a tool from the current tool library or from any tool
library you choose.
Use the right–click menu option to Create new tool and
define the tool.
TIPS:
• To simplify the display, choose Tool Filter and define criteria
9
that will limit the display to only tools that meet your criteria.
• You can select a tool from the library just by entering its tool
number, provided that in the Machine Group Properties
dialog box Tool Settings tab, the option to Search tool library
when entering tool number is selected. To configure this
92
setting, click the Tool Settings icon in the Toolpath Manager
list.
• Double–click a tool to edit its tool definition, or choose Edit
tool from the right–click menu.
93
Working with the Tool Selection dialog box
94
The Tool Selection dialog box displays when you choose the Select
library tool button in the Toolpath parameters tab.
Figure 9-5: Toolpath Selection dialog box
95
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Use this dialog box to select tools from a tool library and add them to
the current machine group. Adding tools to the machine group allows
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you to select and use them in a toolpath.
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TIPS:
• Mastercam Mill and Router toolpath types can use tools and
tool libraries interchangeably.
• While working in the tool display window, click and drag
columns to rearrange them, or sort the tools by clicking on a
column header. Use the right–click menu to access more
display options.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Using the Toolpath Parameters Right-Click Menu • 749
and view and manage tool libraries, the tools in your part file,
and tool definitions.
Load tool on machine: Automatically create a tool
component based the selected tool, and add it to the machine
definition. (Used only for simulation.)
View: Display the tools as large icons, a simple list, or a
detailed list.
Arrange tools: Sort the tools by tool number or tool name.
These options are helpful if you have the tools displayed as
icons without any column headers.
Popup tool: (Lathe) Set options to view a larger picture of the
tool and control the popup action by hovering the mouse over
a tool icon in the Toolpath parameters tab.
Import operations: (Mill / Router) Import one or more
operations from an operations library and automatically
apply them to the current geometry selection.
Feed/speed calculator: (Mill / Router) Use the calculator to
calculate feeds and speeds including surface speed or feed per
tooth.
Save parameters: Save all parameters defined in the Toolpath
parameter dialog box tabs to the operation defaults file
(.DEFAULTS) used in the machine group. This overwrites the
values stored in the operations defaults file only for the
selected toolpath type.
Reload parameters: Restore the values in the Toolpath
parameters dialog box tabs with those defined for the toolpath
type in the machine group’s operation defaults file.
Note: You set the operation defaults file using the Files tab in the
Machine Group Properties dialog box. Initially, the .DEFAULTS file
that displays in the Files tab is associated with the selected control
definition. To view this setting, and other machine group defaults,
click the machine group Files icon in the Toolpath Manager list.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Editing Toolpath Defaults • 751
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Even if you have edited some of the cutting parameters, the edited
values will be overwritten when you select a new tool. This happens
even if the new tool has the same dimensions as the old one.
However, Mastercam includes an option that you can use to control
this behavior. On the Toolpaths page in the System Configuration
dialog box, deselect Automatically calculate HST defaults.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Editing Toolpath Defaults • 759
This disables the automatic update feature so that when you select a
new tool, Mastercam does not update any of the cutting or linking
parameters. Instead, you will see a new button on the Tool page: 9
92
Click Recalculate values to have Mastercam update the cutting and
linking parameters based on the current tool dimensions. In this way,
93
you can control when values are updated.
This also lets you use values from your .defaults file more like other
Mastercam toolpaths. Whether or not the Automatically calculate
HST defaults option is selected, you can still store HST default values
94
in your .defaults file. However, if Automatically calculate HST
defaults is active, many of the defaults will be overwritten as soon as
you select a tool. When this option is not active, the default values will
persist until you explicitly choose to recalculate them.
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Surface toolpaths—For surface toolpaths, you can click additional
geometry icons to view and edit information on the Drive surfaces,
Check surfaces, Containment boundaries, Start points menus, and
CAD files used in the operation. 94
Figure 9-9: Example: Surface Operation details
95
96
Flowline toolpaths—For flowline toolpaths, you can also view and edit
flowline information for the toolpath by selecting the Geometry -
Flowline Data icon. 97
Figure 9-10: Example: Flowline Operation details
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Parameters icons
Toolpath parameters: Opens the Toolpath Parameters
dialog box where you can select a tool, set feeds, speeds,
and other general toolpath parameters.
Tool icons
Tool parameters: Opens the Define Tool dialog box
where you can define the tool and its parameters for the
operation.
Toolpath not restored: The file has not been restored (via
a toolpath regeneration) since the file was opened with
98
the “restore NCI” option deselected. (Icon is light blue.)
Displaying Toolpaths
When you generate a toolpath, the tool motion is drawn in the 9
graphics window. Sometimes the display of multiple toolpaths can
obscure the geometry and each other. You may find it simpler to work
with toolpath display turned off.
Use the following Toolpath Manager options to simplify the display of 92
toolpaths and associative geometry in the graphics window.
Figure 9-11: Toolpath Manager tab, display options
93
You can also use the Toolpath Manager and shortcut keys to show and
hide all toolpaths, or only selected toolpaths. 97
Showing / Hiding All Toolpaths—To show or hide the display of all
toolpaths in the graphics window, position the cursor in the
graphics window, and press the [Alt] key and the [T] key at the same
time [Alt+T]. This key sequence toggles the visibility of all
toolpaths on and off in the graphics window.
98
Showing / Hiding Selected Toolpaths—To change the display state of
one or more toolpaths, in Toolpath Manager select one or more
toolpath operations and type [T]. Mastercam turns off the toolpath
display for the selected toolpaths. To turn the display back on, type
9
[T] again. This is especially helpful if you are working with a
complex part and want to view only specific toolpaths. When you
use this technique to turn off the display of individual operations,
they are not affected by typing [Alt+T] in the graphics window.
910
They remain “hidden” until you type [T] again when the cursor is
positioned in the Toolpath Manager.
766 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Notes:
• Toolpath Manager display options override all other toolpath
display states and settings.
• You may need to repaint the display after toggling the toolpath
display on / off.
• Toolpaths are not displayed for operations marked dirty until
they are regenerated.
To hide most of the text that appears next to the list icons, use
the Display command in the right–click menu.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Editing Operations • 767
Editing Operations
9
Toolpath Manager icons and right–click menu functions offer many
flexible methods you can use to edit operations. So far in this chapter,
you have learned about using Toolpath Manager icons to: 92
Choose a machine and control definition (page 697)
Set machine group properties (page 709)
View and edit toolpath operations (page 760)
This section provides information on how to use the Toolpath
93
Manager right–click menu and its Toolpath Editor and Edit selected
operations submenu functions.
In this section, you will learn about: 94
Using the Toolpath Editor (page 767)
Editing Selected Operations (page 773)
95
Using the Toolpath Editor
The Toolpath Editor gives you a fine level of control over toolpath
motion. You can make modifications to the tool motion created by
Mastercam and change the way areas of the toolpath are machined.
96
Use the Toolpath Editor to modify, add, move, or delete points. You can
also delete selected sections, cuts, or passes if the toolpath includes
them.
You access the Toolpath Editor by selecting a single toolpath in the
97
Toolpath Manager, right-clicking on the operation title, and then
choosing Toolpath Editor from the right–click menu.
Notes:
• If you change the feed rate, use the Change options to apply the
new feed rate as either a Modal change (effective until a
different feed rate is encountered in the toolpath), or to a
defined Section of the toolpath. The section begins with the
point you chose to edit in Step 2 and ends with a position you
choose later in the Section dialog box.
• Rapid move is unavailable for arcs.
• Feed rate is disabled for rapid moves.
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The large area in the left side of the dialog box lists all selected
operations in ascending order by operation number.
Use the check box next to each field in this dialog box to select the
fields to edit. This flexible design lets you implement changes to one
field, all fields, or any combination of fields you choose. When you
click OK or Apply, only selected (activated) fields and their associated
values are used to edit the operations in the list.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Editing Operations • 775
TIPS:
• Use the Enable all and Disable all buttons,
9
located in the lower left corner, to quickly
select / deselect all fields.
• To deselect (disable) the Clearance or Retract fields for all
edited operations, select the check box next to the field and
choose Disable from the Use drop-down list.
92
Note: If a change does not fit an operation in the list, it is ignored
during the update process. For example, changes to Feed plane do
93
not affect a drilling operation. Also, before accepting a change, the
update process verifies that the change can be supported by the
machine group’s Machine Definition and Control Definition. If it
cannot, a message identifies the field and conflict, and no change
occurs.
94
After selecting a field, use one of the following methods to change it:
Type a value in the field. 95
Click the field button, and set parameters in the related dialog
box.
Select a value from a drop-down list.
To update the operations with your changes, click OK or Apply.
96
Use the Abs/Inc drop-down list to choose a plane setting for the
selected field and specified value. Most toolpaths provide Clearance,
Retract, Feed plane, Top of stock, and Depth parameters you enter in
either absolute or incremental values.
97
Absolute values are always measured from the origin.
Incremental values are relative to other parameters or chained
geometry. For example, incremental Depth and Top of Stock
parameters are relative to the location of the chained
98
geometry. The Clearance, Retract, and Feed plane are relative
to the Top of stock.
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Selecting Tools
All tools added to or used in the active machine group appear in the
large area below the Tool Selection check box. To choose a tool and
apply it to all selected operations, start by selecting the Tool Selection
check box. This activates the Tool Selection option. Then select a tool
by clicking it. Use the Tool Filter check box and button to modify the
tool display. To access the Tool Selection dialog box and its options,
click the Select library tool button. You can also pick additional
options from the menu that displays when you right–click in the Tool
area.
Figure 9-14: Edit Common Parameters, Tool right–click menu
Propagating Changes
Use the Propagate button in conjunction with the operations list to
copy one or more selected fields from one operation to all other
operations in the list. First, select the operation you want to copy fields
from by clicking it in the list. The operation is highlighted to indicate
its selection. Click Propagate to update all common parameters fields
with values from the selected operation. Then select one or more fields
to apply, edit them as necessary, and click Apply. The selected fields
and values are applied to all operations in the Edit Common
Parameters list. To use another operation to propagate and update
additional fields, repeat this procedure. To accept the changes and exit
the function, click OK rather than Apply.
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IMPORTANT: This setting overrides the NC output file name
setting specified in the Settings, Configuration, Toolpath
Manager properties page for your Mastercam configuration file.
However, the NC file will be saved to the location specified by
95
the data path entered in the Machine Group Properties Files tab,
Toolpath directory field. This location displays as read-only
information in the Enter new NC name dialog box, as illustrated
above. 96
Changing Program Numbers
Use this function to assign a program number to selected operations.
97
Figure 9-16: Enter Program # dialog box
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The post processor uses the program number for machine tools that
require program numbers rather than program names. The program
number displays next to the NC file name in the Toolpath Manager. 910
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Renumbering Tools
The Renumber tools function makes it easy to renumber the tools
used in the selected operations, and optionally those that have been
saved with the part file but are not used in any of its operations. For
example, you might use this function when reprogramming a job for a
different machine tool.
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Note: Tools are renumbered based on the current order of
operations.
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Reversing Toolpaths
The Reverse toolpath function allows you to transpose the machining
direction and swap the side where cutter compensation in control is
applied for selected operations. If cutter compensation in control is off
in the toolpath, it remains off; only the machining direction is
reversed.
After reversing a toolpath, the NCI file is automatically locked
to prevent you from regenerating the toolpath.
When you return to the Toolpath Manager after accepting
work offset changes, Regenerate all selected operations.
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Tra t for ard
Ru ce ard
ep ck
s rw
w
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As you step through the toolpath, the Details tab of the Backplot
dialog box displays information on the type of move, and the Info tab
displays information such as cycle time and path length for the
selected operation.
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Verifying Operations
Use the Verify function in the Toolpath Manager to create a
3D simulation of machining selected operations. The model
created by this function represents the surface finish. It also
shows collisions, if any exist, and enables you to find and correct
program errors before they reach the shop floor.
Toolpath verification provides two modes of operation: Standard and
TrueSolid.
Standard mode uses pixel-based technology to represent the
machined part. If your installation does not include the
TrueSolid verification add-on, you must use Standard mode
for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis toolpath verification. For information on
purchasing TrueSolid verification, contact your Mastercam
Reseller.
TrueSolid mode uses solid modeling technology for toolpath
simulation. TrueSolid also uses OpenGL® graphics for
dynamic 3D solid rendering and animation. After verifying a
part in TrueSolid mode, you can rotate and magnify the part
to more closely check features, surface finish, or scallops.
Because of these enhanced capabilities, TrueSolid verification
is the best choice for toolpath simulation.
You will learn more about configuring the Verify function for a specific
mode of operation and setting other verify options in “Configuring
Verification Parameters” on page 787.
Notes:
• In Mastercam Lathe, use TrueSolid mode for best results.
• The Turbo feature shows the machined part without simulating
the tool motion. Selecting Turbo for either Standard or
TrueSolid verification may produce results more quickly.
TrueSolid Turbo is available only for 3-axis toolpaths in Top
view and does not support WCS or simulate part indexing.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Backplot and Verify • 785
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When you stop the verification process, either by using a selected stop
option or with the VCR controls, this ribbon bar displays read-only
information about the tool move that occurred just prior to the stop
position. The coordinates for the stop position also display. If you close
the Verify controls dialog box, the ribbon bar also closes.
92
Then use fields in the Verify Options dialog box to customize:
Stock shape, file, boundaries, initial size source.
93
Tool profile, MCX and NCI file selection, tool and STL
tolerances.
Color settings for stock, collision, tool, and cut stock.
Miscellaneous options for TrueSolid simulation, cutter
94
compensation, axis display, STL file comparison, chip
removal, tool color and display, screw thread simulation.
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Note: If you are verifying the current part file (MCX) and do not set
stock dimensions in the Verify configuration dialog box, the stock
values that are specified in the part file are used (Machine Group
Properties, Stock Set up tab). If stock values cannot be used from
the part file, the stock dimensions in the NCI file associated with
the part file are used. If you are verifying a different NCI file,
Mastercam scans the specified NCI file for the stock dimensions.
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To view the part model against the geometry contained in the STL file,
choose Compare. In addition to the comparison, you can show the
machined model and the STL model separately or together.
You can set the colors in the STL Compare dialog box to denote areas
on the part where material is being left or where the part is gouged.
Each color represents a range of values for the amount of stock left on
the part or removed from the part. For example, the first color can
represent material greater than 0.003 left on the part. The next color
can represent any material left between 0.003 and 0.002. The
horizontal shading boundary near the middle of the dialog box
indicates the color used to show zero stock left (a correct toolpath).
Values and colors above this boundary denote areas above the stock;
values and colors below this boundary denote areas in the stock.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Backplot and Verify • 791
To change range settings, enter numeric values in the text boxes on the
left. To change the color mapped to a range, enter a value in the text
box or choose the color palette button and select a color from the
Colors dialog box.
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Post Processing
Post processing refers to the process by which the toolpaths in your
Mastercam part files are converted to a format that can be understood
by your machine tool's control (for example, G-codes). A special
program called a post processor reads the Mastercam file and writes
the appropriate NC code. Generally, every machine tool or control will
require its own post processor, customized to produce code formatted
to meet its exact requirements and user preferences. In addition, you
can customize a post processor to reflect job or shop preferences, for
example, safety blocks or tolerances.
Post processors have two components.
An executable file such as MP.DLL, which is provided with
Mastercam. This is often used “as is.” Custom executables can
be developed for advanced applications, as necessary.
A post customization script (.PST) which is used by MP.DLL to
customize the post output for your machine tool. It includes
format statements, processing logic, miscellaneous integers
and custom variable definitions, system variables, etc.
Mastercam includes a wide variety of working posts for
common machines and NC controllers, which can be further
customized for specific needs.
A single post executable (such as MP.DLL) produces NC output for a
wide variety of machines by reading different .PST files. You can use
one post executable with one or more .PST file.
Post processors do not read Mastercam part files directly. Instead,
Mastercam creates an NCI file as an intermediate file format to be
used by the post processor. You can choose to save the NCI files in a
text format so that you can review them directly. This can be very
useful when customizing posts, debugging post problems, or
analyzing problems with the NC code for a particular part, because it
lets you see the exact data that the post is reading.
Notes:
• Mastercam also supports binary post processors. These are posts
9
in which the processing logic is encapsulated in a special binary
file with a .PSB extension, which cannot be edited in a standard
text editor. Post text and similar data can still be written to a
separate .PST file, though, using the Control Definition
Manager.
92
• For more information on MP post processors, see the MP Post
Processor Reference Guide, available on CD from your
Mastercam Reseller. 93
About NCI Files
Every toolpath or wirepath operation has an NCI file associated with it.
An NCI file is Mastercam's intermediate NC format. It contains all the
94
machining instructions and information for the NC file, but in a
generic format common to all machines. The post processor uses the
NCI file to create the final NC program for a specific machine or
control. The NCI file is the primary input for a Mastercam post
95
processor. In Mastercam X, the NCI file typically contains the
toolpaths for an entire machine group.
There are actually two types of NCI files: binary and text NCI files.
When you create an operation in a Mastercam file, Mastercam
96
automatically creates a binary NCI file with the same name as the last
operation. Mastercam works with these NCI files in the background.
You do not work with them directly unless you are writing a post
processor or doing other very advanced work. 97
When you post an operation, you have the option to create and save a
text NCI file. This contains the information from the binary NCI file in
a text format so you can read it. Use the control definition to tell
Mastercam how you want to work with NCI files. Consult your
Mastercam reseller if you need more documentation.
98
Understanding the NCI data format
This section introduces the format of a text NCI file. NCI data is
arranged in pairs of lines. The first line of each pair is an operation
9
code, or NCI G-code that indicates the type of operation, such as a
linear move or a stock definition. (Note that the codes used in the NCI
file do not look like the G-codes that you are used to seeing in your NC
programs, because they have to be machine- and control-
independent.) The second line provides parameters used by the NCI
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code. For example, operation code 1020 defines stock block size and
796 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Note: Operations for which posting has been disabled are not
posted even if they are part of a batch job.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Power User Tips • 799
Note: When you open a batch file, its contents overwrite whatever
is already in the window. You can only list the contents of one
batch file at a time.
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Power User Tips • 801
If you do not want to add any other operations to the list from the
batch file, you can click OK now to run the job.
9
Selecting Batch Operations from Mastercam Files
Once a Mastercam file has been saved, its operations are available for
batch processing. If you want to include operations from the current
file, you must save the file before the operations will be available.
92
Click on the Open button in the Source file section:
Any operations that have been tagged with the To batch option will
automatically appear in the batch file list (unless you have disabled
this feature in the Advanced properties). You can add other operations
93
to the list by selecting them and clicking the red arrow.
TIPS:
• Save the Mastercam file before opening the Batch Toolpath
Operations dialog box. It reads the toolpaths from
Mastercam files on your hard drive, not from system
memory, so until the current file is saved, it does not know
about its toolpaths.
• Operation types whose toolpath cannot be regenerated (for
example, Trimmed toolpaths) cannot be processed in batch
mode.
• Operations tagged for batch processing cannot be
transformed.
• Operations tagged for batch processing are not regenerated
when you regenerate operations in the Toolpath Manager.
They can only be regenerated during batch processing.
• If you clear the To batch toolpath parameter on an existing
operation, the operation must be regenerated.
Importing Operations
You can import saved operations to the current Mastercam file, with or
without their geometry. Import these operations from a previously
created operations library.
You can also automatically recalculate feeds and speeds based on the
current job setup, put the operations in specific tool and construction
planes, and check for and eliminate duplicate tools.
Click the operation to select it for import. Mastercam marks selected
operations with a blue check mark. Press [Ctrl] and click to select
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Power User Tips • 803
Transforming Operations
Use the Transform toolpaths function from the Toolpath menu to run
the same toolpaths in different locations or at different orientations in
the same part file. You can transform single toolpaths, or several at a
time. Consider using transform toolpaths when you want to:
Cut multiple copies of a part on several fixtures. You can then
assign different work offsets to each separate operation
created by the transform.
Cut the same feature at several locations in a part. You can
choose to run each operation created by the transform at a
specific coordinate distance from the original, or rotate the
copies around a center point.
Cut the same feature on different faces of a part, or a
tombstone application. You can also rotate a toolpath through
a plane other than the original toolplane. In addition to
changing the orientation of the toolpath, you can add a
coordinate translation, too.
Cut a mirror image of a part, in either the same plane or a
different one.
When you transform a toolpath, you can choose to maintain an
associative link between the original operation and the source
operation, or you can create new operations that are entirely separate.
You can also choose to create copies of the original geometry at the
new locations.
When you click on the Parameters icon for a transform operation, you
will see the Transform parameters dialog box tabs, not the parameters
for an individual toolpath. You can then edit the transformation
settings, or change it to an entirely different type of transformation. A
single transform operation can include multiple source operations; for
example, in the picture above, the transformation includes both the
slot mill and drill operations. Transform operations are associative;
this means that if you make a change to either of the source operations
or their geometry, the transform operation will be marked dirty until
you regenerate it.
Instead of creating a transform operation, you can choose to create
copies of the source operation (and optionally, their geometry). If this
option had been chosen in the above example, instead of the single
Transform by Toolplane operation, you would see additional drill or
slot milling operations in the Toolpath Manager. If you click on the
Parameters icon for these new operations, you will see toolpath
parameter settings, not transform settings. You can then edit or
customize each of the individual copies if you wish. These new
WORKING WITH TOOLPATHS / Power User Tips • 805
operations are not associative; if you change the original toolpaths, the
new operations will not be marked dirty.
9
Note: The transformed operations will be written to the active
machine group (where the red arrow is in the Toolpath Manager),
even if the source operations are from a different machine group.
Make sure the transformed operations are compatible with the
machine and control definition in the destination machine group.
92
Use the Transform Operations Parameters dialog box to begin creating
a transform operation. 93
Figure 9-25: Transform Operations Parameters dialog box
94
95
96
97
Select the source operations, the type of transform, and how you want
to organize the toolpaths which result. After you select the type of
transformation, choose only one of the remaining dialog box tabs
(Translate, Rotate, Mirror) to complete the operation. For example, if
98
you choose a Rotate transformation, the Translate and Mirror tabs are
unavailable.
In this section, you will learn about: 9
Selecting Operations to Transform (page 806)
Choosing Transformation Types (page 806)
Organizing Transform Operations (page 807)
Associating Work Offsets (page 807)
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You can select operations from different machine groups, but because
each machine group can have a different machine associated with it,
verify that the transformed operation can be run in the destination
machine group.
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chapter 10
Machine and Control
Definitions
In this chapter, you will learn about:
Understanding Machine and Control Definitions
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 812
Managing Machine and Control Definitions
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 823
812 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
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814 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
For example, if your part requires both milling and turning operations,
you can create separate lathe and mill machine groups just by
selecting the proper machines. You can save them all in the same part.
Each machine group stores a complete job setup for the selected
machine.
While you will work with machine definitions every time you create
toolpaths, for most day-to-day tasks, you will not need to explicitly
work with .CONTROL files. Just like in a real machine tool, the control
is “bolted on” to a machine definition, so that when you select the
machine definition, the control gets selected with it.
When you select a machine from the Machine Type menu, several
other things happen:
A post processor is automatically selected. It is possible to
configure a machine definition with several available post
processors. In this case, a default post processor is
automatically selected when you pick the machine, but you
can select any allowed post from the machine group
properties (see “Selecting a Different Post Processor” on
page 841).
Mastercam loads a set of operation defaults (.DEFAULTS file).
Mastercam’s interface changes to match the selected
machine. If you select a lathe, for example, the Toolpaths
menu lists only Mastercam Lathe toolpaths. In addition, the
set of toolbars that display change to match the selected
machine. For example, when you select a lathe machine
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Understanding Machine and Control Definitions • 815
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means that each post contains a complete set of post text and
miscellaneous values that can be customized for each control
or machine. 10
Note: The same post can be used by more than one control
definition, provided the control definitions are stored in different
.CONTROL files or used by different types of machines. 102
It configures the posting environment. In addition to the
name and path of the post processor, this includes the files to
create (.NC, .NCI, .OPS), their paths, and the communication/
DNC settings. For example, if you have a part with several
103
machine groups, you can select all of the groups and post
them at once, even if they use completely different machine
types. Mastercam automatically selects the proper post and
creates the proper set of files for the toolpaths in each group,
based on the settings in the control definition used by each
104
group.
It sets values for a number of pre-defined post variables. For
example, many of the tolerances settings initialize predefined
variables that in previous versions of Mastercam could only
105
be set within the .PST file. Other settings include many NC
output variables, such as sequence numbers and their format.
For users who develop post processors, control definition settings are
transmitted to the post in several ways. As mentioned, some control
106
definition settings initialize specific pre-defined post variables. Many
of the other control definition settings are available to your post
processor through operation parameters.
The Mastercam X Post Parameter Reference (available as a .pdf file in
107
your \Documentation folder) lists the post variables and parameter
numbers corresponding to each control definition setting.
In addition, the control definition provides the mechanism for
transmitting post text and miscellaneous values from the .PST file to
108
the rest of Mastercam.
.pst file and a .txt file that contained post text and miscellaneous
values. In Mastercam X, these have been combined into a single file,
the .pst file. (Mastercam X also supports binary and encrypted posts,
.psb files. In general, references to .pst files in this document apply
10
equally well to .psb files.)
Your post processor has two main sections:
The first section has the post blocks, processing logic, variable
102
declarations, and formatting statements similar to pervious
versions of Mastercam.
The second section is the post text section, It contains
separate copies of post text for every control definition that
103
references the post processor. This lets you customize the post
text for specific controls or machines. For example, you could
have a generic mill post that serviced two machines in your
shop. The .pst file would have two complete post text sections,
one for each machine.
104
See “Editing Post Text” on page 853 and “Editing Miscellaneous
Values” on page 861 to learn more.
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822 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
To edit the master copies stored on your hard drive (or create new
machine and control definitions), choose Machine Definition
Manager and Control Definition Manager from the Settings menu.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 823
The diagram on the next page gives you an overview of how to use the
Machine Definition Manager to build a machine.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 825
10
General Machine Parameters has settings that affect the entire machine. 102
Some buttons are only used Open the Control Definition Manager to edit the selected .control file.
for simulation and event-
driven programming functions. Create axis combinations for machines with multiple axes sets, like multiple spindle lathes.
Lock your machine definition with passwords.
103
D
104
A
105
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C
107
B
108
Start by dragging empty subassemblies from window A to the Machine Configuration window C. Then
drag individual components B (such as axes and turrets) onto each subassembly. Choose only those
components that are actually present on your machine. Click the Component File button to open other
109
libraries of specific components. When a component has been added to the “tree” display, double-
click it to set its properties, such as travel/rotation limits and axis orientation.
Use section D to select the control unit and post processor. First, select the .CONTROL file, and then
select the post processor. Mastercam automatically populates the list with just the post processors
10
from the .CONTROL file.
826 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Mill users who want to use the highfeed machining features need to
complete the Machine dynamics tab:
Lathe users who want to use a VTL need to set this up on the Cplane,
WCS, HTC/VTL tab:
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 831
for that product, rather than with the start-up product specified on the
Start/Exit page. This is most useful when you have several Mastercam
products installed and want to start each one with a specific machine. 10
The command line switches are simply the first letter of each product
name:
Mill
Lathe
/m
/l
102
Router /r
Wire /w
If you wish, you can attach the command line switch to your desktop
103
shortcut. Simply right-click on your Mastercam icon and choose
Properties. Add the command line switch to the Target field:
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If you need to, you can replace the current machine definition with a
different one. You might need to do this for a couple of reasons:
You originally created the toolpaths for one machine, but
need to run the job on a different machine.
You want to use a different post processor, and the new post
processor is attached to a different machine definition.
When you replace the machine definition, Mastercam validates the
existing operations and informs you of any incompatibilities—for
example, if a toolpath uses a rotary axis that is not present on the new
machine. Mastercam also adjusts feeds and speeds that exceed the
limits of the new machine definition and informs you of any changes.
Note: Changing the machine definition does not affect the tooling
that has been selected for operations that have already been
created. It is your responsibility to ensure that the selected tools
and holders are available on the new machine.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 837
102
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3 Select the desired machine definition.
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Note: Because this procedure affects the disk copy of the machine
definition, you cannot perform it from the Machine Group Proper-
107
ties.
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The list displays all of the post processors in the .control file
108
that have been configured for this machine type. If the post
that you want to use is not listed here, it needs to be added to
the list as described in the next section.
4 Click Yes when Mastercam asks you if you want to replace the
109
existing control definition.
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10
102
3 Select the new post processor from the list.
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104
The list displays all of the post processors in the .control file
that have been configured for this machine type. If the post
105
that you want to use is not listed here, it needs to be added to
the list. “Adding posts” on page 862 tells you how to do this.
4 Save the machine definition and click OK to close the
Machine Definition Manager.
106
Note: If the machine definition that you edited is currently being
used in a machine group, Mastercam will ask you if you want to
update the machine group with the new definition.
107
Locking machine and control definitions
Mastercam lets you secure your machine and control definition files
108
with password protection. You can lock each file separately. When a
file is password-protected, users can open the file for viewing, but
cannot make any changes.
When you lock a machine definition file, only the .mmd/.lmd/
109
.rmd/.wmd file is protected.
When you lock a control definition file, only the .control file is
locked. 10
846 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
the current file is not password-protected. Click the button and enter a
password to protect it.
When the button displays a locked state,
the file is protected from changes. Click the button and enter the
password to unlock it for editing.
The protection applies only to the master copy of the machine
definition or .control file stored on your workstation’s hard drive. The
machine group copy stored in your part file can still be edited and the
changes will be saved with your part file.
When you try to open a protected file, Mastercam will prompt you for
the password. If you do not know the password, click OK to open the
file for viewing. You can look at all of the parameter pages, but cannot
edit any values.
IMPORTANT: Locking the .control file does not affect the .pst
files for any post processors referenced by its control defini-
tions. Locking or encrypting post processors is a separate
process.
Note: Because this procedure affects the disk copy of the machine
definition or .control file, you cannot perform it from the Machine
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 847
Group Properties.
10
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2 Click the Set password protection button on the toolbar.
104
3 Enter the desired password.
Pages that have not been opened in the current session have a
question mark next to them:
Pages that have been already viewed in the current editing session
have a green check mark next to them:
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 849
Note: Switching to a new page does NOT save any changes that
were made to the page you were on. The green check mark does
NOT mean that the changes on that page have been saved.
10
The list of pages that are available, as well as the specific options on
each, varies depending on the kind of machine you are creating a
control for—for example, mills, lathes, routers, or wire EDM machines.
102
Controls for mill/turn machines let you access both mill and lathe
options. See “Control Definition Properties” on page 869 to learn more
about each page, or click the Help button on each page.
103
TIP: See the Mastercam X Post Parameter Reference (installed
as a PDF file in your \Documentation folder) to learn more
about how each control definition field corresponds to a post
variable or parameter. 104
Most of the data that you enter with the Control Definition Manager is
saved with the control definition in the .CONTROL file, but there are
two major exceptions: 105
Settings from the Operation Defaults page are stored in the
.DEFAULTS file. See “Operation Defaults” on page 892 to learn
more.
Settings from the Text pages and Misc Int/Real page are
stored in the .PST file. For more information, see “Editing Post
106
Text” on page 853.
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Mastercam opens the Control Definition Manager.
4 Open individual pages and make changes, as necessary.
Note: When you are working from the machine group, you cannot
103
edit post text or miscellaneous values.
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indicates that the post text which follows it is for a Mill control that is
104
saved in the file Generic Haas 4X Mill.CONTROL. The section
identified by the header includes post text, miscellaneous values, and
canned text.
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Figure 10-4: How post text is organized inside the .pst file
Because each .pst file maintains separate copies of post text for
different control definitions, when you decide to work on the post text
for a particular post processor, the first thing you need to do is identify
which control definition the desired post text applies to. Then you can
load that control definition in the Control Definition Manager.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 855
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Text field is empty Empty fields are not written Mastercam uses the default
to the post. If all fields under system text.
a header are empty, then the
category header is not
written.
“” (two double quotes) “” is written to the post. A String is empty, and the
category header is corresponding edit field is
generated. disabled.
Any text The text is written to the The text is read and replaces
post, and a category header any existing text.
is generated.
Use the following procedures to edit and import post text. Because
these procedure affects the .PST file, you cannot perform them from
the Machine Group Properties Files tab.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 857
TIP: You can also use this feature to copy post text values from
a pre-Mastercam X .TXT file to a Mastercam X .PST file. 10
1 From the Settings menu, select Control Definition Manager.
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103
104
105
106
2 If necessary, click the Open button to select the desired
.CONTROL file.
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108
3 If necessary, select the specific control definition to work on.
Remember, each .CONTROL file can contain several control
definitions for different post processors. Click Existing
definitions to select the control definition linked to the post
processor you want to edit.
109
4 Select Text in the Control topics list.
5 Find the desired sheet or cell and decide how much text you
need to import. You can import post text for:
10
all the sheets listed in the Text section
860 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
an entire sheet
an entire column of entries in a single sheet
a single cell
6 Right-click in a data cell. Select Import from the menu and the
desired amount of text to import.
9 Click the Save button to save the imported text to the .PST
file. 106
Editing Miscellaneous Values
Miscellaneous values (user-defined integer and real variables) are
stored in the .PST file in the post text section. Working with
miscellaneous values is a two-stage process.
107
First, use the Text page in the Control Definition Manager to
create the text labels. Follow the procedures in “Editing Post
Text” on page 853. 108
Then use the Misc Int/Real Values page to tell Mastercam
how to initialize them. You can enter default values on this
page or direct Mastercam to get the values from the
.DEFAULTS file. By separating the defaults from the variable
labels in this way, Mastercam lets you easily create and import
109
generic sets of variables while maintaining separate default
values.
Refer to the online help on the Misc Int/Real Values page for detailed
information about how the defaults work.
10
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Adding posts
Follow these steps to make additional post processors available to a
machine definition. Completing these steps will let operators select a
different post processor without changing the machine definition.
This lets them select and use different post processors just like in
earlier versions of Mastercam, with the added security that they will
only be allowed to select posts that are appropriate for their current
machine.
When you select a post processor in the Machine Definition Manager,
Mastercam actually reads the list of posts from the .control file:
Therefore, you will use the Control Definition Manager to build and
configure this list.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 863
Note: Because this procedure affects the disk copy of the machine
107
definition, you cannot perform it from the Machine Group Proper-
ties:
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6 Click Add files and select the post processors that you wish to
add. (You can select more than one file at a time.)
Note: Mastercam will warn you if the selected post processors have
not been updated to Mastercam X.
10
102
The “plus sign” icon will be replaced by a green check mark.
This indicates that the new post is OK and can be selected in
the machine definition.
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10 Repeat steps 8 and 9 for each post that you wish to add. 105
What Mastercam does behind the scenes
When you clicked Save in step 9 above, Mastercam created a new copy
of the control definition settings in the .control file. A .control file
configured for use with several posts actually contains many
106
individual control definitions—each control definition corresponds to
a single post processor. This lets you customize each control definition
for a single post processor.
When you add a control definition for a new post processor to the
107
.control file—like you just did in the previous procedure—Mastercam
populates the control definition pages with default values. Where do
these values come from? These are the values that you see when
Default setting for control type is selected in the Post processor list. 108
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Edit the values for the new control definition by typing new data
directly in the pages, or you can import settings from another control
definition used by a different post. To do this, right-click in any page:
You can choose to import data for a specific page, or all the pages.
You can choose how much text to import, from a single cell to all the
sheets. Choose From post to import the text from another Mastercam
X post, or From text to import from a pre-Mastercam X post text file
(.txt file). See “Editing Post Text” on page 853 to learn more.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 867
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868 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
The .PST file exists and the post processor has been
properly configured in the control definition. Status is OK
for posting. This is the only status that is approved for
posting!
Mastercam cannot find the .PST file and the post processor
has not been configured in the Control Definition Manager
properties pages.
The .PST file exists and the post processor has been added.
You see this icon when you first add a post processor to the
list and have not yet saved the control definition. Save the
control definition to the .CONTROL file to change its status
to OK.
The .PST file exists but has not been configured for use
with a control definition. Select the post processor and
create a control definition with it. You can use it after you
save the control definition to the .CONTROL file.
Tolerances
The properties you define in this page are used to set pre-defined post
processing variables. You can also record the control’s minimum
tolerance requirements for creating surfaces, splines, and other
geometry. The minimum and maximum arc radius values may be used
by the toolpath filtering functions.
Figure 10-5: Tolerances properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
Communications
Use the Communications page to configure the serial
communications settings between the control and the computer
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running Mastercam.
Figure 10-6: Communications properties page
(Control Definition Manager) 102
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872 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Files
Use this page to specify the location of the files needed by the control
definition and to establish default settings for saving different types of
files. You can change the default operations file (.DEFAULTS) or the
operations library (.OPERATIONS) for a particular machine group,
assign a default .SET Setup Sheet template, and set post and C-Hook /
NET-Hook program .DLLs.
Use the other option groups in this page to configure the posting
process, including how to log post processing errors and messages,
setting up Post Processing dialog box defaults, and defining how to
manage NC parameters.
Figure 10-7: Files properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
The File usage and Data paths fields list the different types of items
for which defaults can be set. Select an item to see the current default
displayed in the field next to it. Choose the Folder or File cabinet icons
to select a new value.
Other options allow you to define how Mastercam logs errors and
display messages when using the control.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 873
Notes:
• When creating a new control definition, the default names and
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paths of the toolpath defaults (.DEFAULTS) files are read from
the Settings, Configuration, Files properties page settings. For
more information, see “Files” on page 131.
• Use the Control Definition Manager, Tool properties page to
edit and create new toolpath defaults (.DEFAULTS) files. For
102
more information, see page 878.
NC Dialog 103
Use this page to enable different options in the Toolpath parameters
tab. Deselect any features that are not supported by the control.
Figure 10-8: NC Dialog properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
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Notes:
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• The Rotary axis button is enabled through the Machine
Definition Manager.
• All control types use this page, but not all options appear for
each type.
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874 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
NC Output
You can set a number of options that affect how the NC code is
formatted and presented, including:
Absolute/incremental, Post file debug, Comments in
NC (page 874)
Sequence numbers (page 874)
Spaces and end-of-block characters (page 875)
Figure 10-9: NC Output properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
For each active field, you can enter a new or different default value.
When you save the current control definition, the new values will be
written to the text section of the active post.
The values that you enter here will normally be the defaults for all
operations created with this control definition. You can choose to
override this behavior with the Initialize toolpath operation options.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 877
Work offsets
G92
G54, E1
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Other Custom
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878 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Use the Tplane field to assign work offsets to all Tplanes or just those
which are being transformed.
Tool
Use the Tool subpages to set the defaults for tool offsets, numbering,
and home positions that apply to mill, lathe, router, and mill/turn
control types. (Some of the field labels are slightly different for lathe.)
For mill/turn machines, you can access separate subpages for mill and
lathe tools.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 879
Linear
Use these options to define how the control interpolates 3D linear
motion. (Only Lathe and Wire machines have corner rounding
options.)
Note: For Mill/Turn controls, separate linear subpages for Mill and
Lathe are provided so you can configure these settings separately.
After setting the linear motion for each plane, use the Corner rounding 103
/ Exact stop fields to define how the control handles corner rounding.
Before selecting the exact stop mode for corner rounding, verify that
this mode is supported by the post processor.
Arc 104
This page allows you to define how the control supports arcs and
helixes.
Figure 10-14: Arc properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
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Lathe controls share the same page with Mill/Router controls, except
that for Lathe, there is only one plane available and no options for
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helix support. For Mill/Turn controls, you will see separate subpages
882 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
for Mill and Lathe settings. Mastercam uses this information when
filtering toolpaths.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 883
Rotary
Use the settings in this page to further customize the rotary axis
parameters from the machine definition. You can choose to break
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rapid rotary moves when they exceed the rotary axis limits set in the
machine definition. You can also allow Mastercam to calculate
bi-stable solutions for rotary axis positions. This allows the post
processor to attempt the second solution in order to stay within limits 102
or reduce machine motion. Depending on conditions and the post
processor, this may cause a tool retract and reposition.
Figure 10-15: Rotary properties page
(Control Definition Manager) 103
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Select the planes in which the control can create arcs. Settings
in this page are disabled for unselected planes. For mills,
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indicate whether helixes are supported and, if so, in what
planes.
For each plane in which arcs are supported, choose how the
control defines the centerpoint. Select a method from the
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drop-down list.
Indicate whether the control allows 360-degree arcs. If it does
not, define whether to break the arcs at quadrants or
180-degree increments.
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Select the error check routines to process when posting.
884 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Feed
The options in this page allow you to define how Mastercam interprets
the feed rate values that are entered for each toolpath operation
created using the control.
Figure 10-16: Feed properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
Set feed and rotary options for each axis group that applies to
the control: 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis.
Define how the units for the feed rate are dimensioned. Set
the dimensions separately for linear and rotary feed rates.
You can also choose to output rapid moves as linear moves at the
maximum feed rate and, if necessary, adjust feed rates for arc moves.
Notes:
• Make sure that the control has the internal logic to support the
options you select.
• To set maximum and minimum feed rates, use the Machine
Definition Manager.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 885
Cutter Compensation
Use this page to tell Mastercam how your control implements cutter
compensation and which compensation options will be available to
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the user.
Figure 10-17: Cutter Compensation properties page
(Control Definition Manager) 102
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The first check box determines if the control supports cutter
compensation at all. If this option is not selected, users will not be able
to select Control as the compensation type, but they will be able to
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select Computer to have Mastercam calculate compensated toolpaths.
If this option is selected, the other options are enabled.
If your control allows you to activate cutter compensation on
arc moves, select that option here.
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Selecting the Control supports… options enables the wear
compensation features. These will appear in the list of
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886 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Machine Cycles
Use the subpages of machine cycle properties to define how the
control implements different machining cycles.
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Figure 10-18: Machine Cycles properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
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For mill/turn machines, an additional option is added to this page:
Use separate mill and lathe drill cycle enable options. When
selected, this option creates separate subpages for mill and lathe drill 107
cycles, allowing you to independently set and maintain their options.
All control types use the same version of this page. In the following
section, you will learn to use additional detail pages to set more
specific options for drill cycles and lathe canned cycles, including: 108
Drill Cycles (page 888)
Lathe Canned Cycles (page 890)
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888 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Drill Cycles
Select all drill cycles that produce canned cycle output. The drill cycles
that you do not select in this page can still be used in the toolpaths you
create with this control. However, using them results in long-hand NC
code.
Figure 10-19: Mill Drill Cycles properties page
(Control Definition Manager)
Subprograms
Mastercam uses subprograms in two ways: 10
Transform subprograms are created by toolpath transform
operations.
Non-transform subprograms are created by depth cuts and
drilling operations. Non-transform subprograms are available
only with Mastercam Mill and Router.
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In the Subprograms properties page, you define how the control
supports both types of subprograms.
Figure 10-22: Subprograms properties page 103
(Control Definition Manager)
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892 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Operation Defaults
Use this page to create and edit sets of toolpath operation defaults
(.DEFAULTS files). This page does the same thing as the Edit Operation
Defaults dialog box, which you typically access from the Machine
Group Properties. It is provided in the Control Definition Manager as a
convenience, so you can access toolpath and operation defaults while
working with the control settings. Separate Inch and Metric pages let
you work with the default files for inch and metric operations.
Text
Use the individual subpages under the Text heading in the Control
topics pane to create, view, and edit post processor text entries in a
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number of categories.
Prior to Mastercam X, posts were divided into two files:
A .PST file, which contained post variables, questions, and 102
other processing logic.
A .TXT file, which contained text data used by the post
processor and which was frequently used to customize the
Mastercam interface with machine- or control-specific
parameters.
103
In Mastercam X, all of the post controlled text in the .TXT file has been
brought into the control definition, and its text strings are now part of
the .PST file. Instead of editing the .TXT file directly, you now use the
Text page in the Control Definition Manager to access the text data in
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the .PST file. See “Editing Post Text” on page 853 and “Editing
Miscellaneous Values” on page 861 to learn more.
Mastercam's control definition architecture means that each .PST file
can have several sections of post text. Every time you configure a post
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processor for use with a specific control definition, Mastercam writes a
new post text record and appends it to the .PST file. The records are
separated by headers which contain the name of the control and type
of machine. For example, the header:
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[CTRL_MILL|BPT-DX32]
refers to a Mill control definition which is stored in a control file
named BPT-DX32.CONTROL. This means that in a single .PST file, you
can store different sets of post text with unique values for different
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controls.
In addition, there is a section in the .PST file that contains default post
text. Use the right–click menu in any of the Text subpages to import
post text sections from other control definitions in the same .PST file
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or from completely different .PST files, or to restore values from the
defaults.
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894 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Choose a topic from the list to view its text entries in a spreadsheet-like
interface. To enter or edit a value, double–click in a field and type the
new value.
MACHINE AND CONTROL DEFINITIONS / Managing Machine and Control Definitions • 895
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Note: For misc. ints/reals, the default values are embedded in the
text string. For more information, see “Miscellaneous Integer / Real
Values” on page 876. 106
Right–click Menu Options—For more editing options and to import
text from other sources, use the following options that display when
you right–click in the Text properties page. 107
IMPORTANT: The right–click menu is available only when you
right–click in a row that is in use and in a column other than
Description. 108
Import: Import to an entire sheet, a category, a single cell, or
all text pages from another post processor, or import an entire
sheet from a .TXT file created with a prior version of
Mastercam.
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Default: Choose the source of the default values for the
current sheet, category, cell, or all text pages, either system-
wide default values, or the post processor default. The post
processor default is the generic text originally found in the
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post text file.
896 • MASTERCAM X2/ Reference Guide
Index
control definition defaults ................ 878 creating from normals ...................... 226
definitions ......................................... 474 managing .......................................... 218
holders .............................................. 474 measuring origins............................. 220
numbering ........................................ 723 named............................................... 212
renumbering ..................................... 778 planes and coordinate systems ........ 206
selecting ............................................ 744 setting for vertical turret lathes ........ 238
Tplanes standard............................................ 208
about ................................................. 207 Status bar options............................. 209
and WCS............................................ 233 top..................................................... 217
changing example.....................227–233 Tplane / Cplane (example)............... 213
tracking files ......................................42, 70 viewsheets............................................. 203
transform visual cues
assigning entity attributes ................ 345 dragging and dropping toolbars......... 89
using (Xform) .................................... 343 using AutoCursor.............................. 162
translators
converter defaults ............................. 121 W
file types .............................................. 58
waterline toolpaths............................... 460
trim / break / extend
WCS
using.................................................. 332
changing example .................... 227–233
trochoidal loops .................................... 490
example .................................... 234, 235
turning toolpaths
Status bar options............................. 209
Lathe ................................................. 578
Tplanes ............................................. 233
views, planes, coordinate systems ... 206
U wire backplot defaults .......................... 157
undelete / delete ................................... 242
undo / redo .....................................42, 240
work offsets
renumbering..................................... 779 116
units of measure (metric / inch) work system
changing............................................ 159 control definition defaults................ 877
unzoom / zoom..................................... 202 workspace orientation............................ 12
user applications
running ............................................... 52 X
Xform
V assigning entity attributes ................ 345
verify transforming entities .......................... 48
defaults.............................................. 153 using ................................................. 343
operations ......................................... 784
running ............................................. 785 Z
vertical turret lathes
Z depth
setting views for ................................ 238
setting ............................................... 198
View Manager ....................................... 213
Zip2Go
viewports
sharing files......................................... 60
setting................................................ 204
zoom / unzoom .................................... 202
views
changing in a viewport...................... 205
changing origins ............................... 221
creating by rotating........................... 225
creating from entities........................ 224
908 • MASTERCAM X2 / Reference Guide
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